This week we explore the concept of being socially engaged, the last of our graduate profile elements. Some explanation is required to prevent students from thinking this is about having lot of parties and time with friends!

Our core purpose calls us to develop students who are engaged in redemptive action in the world. This means they will have a desire to engage socially and for the good of others. We are not designed to be selfishly individualistic, only looking out for our own interests and not for others. In fact, the balanced view of the Scriptures is that while we need to care for ourselves, we must also look out for others. If there is a clash of needs, Scripture would lean towards putting others ahead of ourselves (Philippians 2:1-11). Jesus’ example is the one we are called to follow. He expended himself on serving the demanding crowds of his day and did so, not looking for reward from them, but simply living out of his own character. Ultimately, He gave his life for his enemy.

If each of us takes the view that we need to be doing things to help others, then all will be helped. We want a generation of students who see opportunities to use their abilities, their gifts and their education to be a blessing to others. We would all agree that it is more blessed to give that to receive but we mostly prefer the receiving.

Our materialistic and individualistic culture calls us to do only those things that benefit us. It teaches us not to get involved with others unless we see a direct benefit for ourselves. Yet, humanity is full of examples of selflessness; how powerful and life-changing it is when someone chooses to do something for others even at their own risk and expense.

The challenge is to deal with our inherently selfish nature and become other-centred. Only a life transformation can accomplish this, but this is what we want for our students. As they discover the value of a living relationship with God through Jesus, they will begin to desire to engage in society in redemptive ways and to bring healing and wholeness where there is brokenness. This is what can transform a society: when a group of people engage in the issues of the day with a view to bringing wholeness and restoration to each situation.

Recent studies have shown the drop off in volunteerism in our society. We want our students to be willing volunteers in doing good for others. At Secondary assembly recently, we honoured Cooper, a student who volunteers weekly and in the school holidays at a soup kitchen in Woy Woy. This is what we want our graduates to be known for: selflessly serving others in a range of ways that brings them blessing and benefit and helps to restore hurt and brokenness.

Phillip Nash

Principal