We knew that it was going to be a tough year with the pandemic and governmental restrictions. That is why we began the year with an emphasis on love, according to John 13 and 1 Peter 4.

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. (John 13:34-35)

The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. (1 Peter 4:7-9)

The world is trying to divide us and turn us against each other. Every discussion is understood from a political perspective. If you don’t agree with me, you are hateful! This is not love, and Christ would not be pleased with this. Love covers a multitude of sins and is patient. We can have different opinions and still love one another.

This love has helped GCS overcome the adversity that we have faced this year. We had eleven cases of COVID enter the school from the outside within three days, and each case was unrelated to the others. We did have a few student-to-student transmissions in our gym with substitutes present. We don’t know of any classroom transmissions. After overcoming this trial, we have been continuously in school up to Christmas break. Again, love has brought us through the opposition from individuals and governmental agencies.

With the pandemic and increasing governmental restrictions, it may make it seem like a lesser Christmas, but it shouldn’t be. We are celebrating the birth of Christ who is love incarnate. If we focus during this Christmas season on Jesus being born of a virgin, tabernacling among us, and taking away our sins, what reason do we have that can reduce our joy and worship of our Savior? This is a special season for followers of Christ, and the world cannot take this away from us!

Merry Christmas!