We had an interesting conversation at BCS today. One of the students asked if BCS offers a lesser education than public schools. It’s an interesting question. 

I know what kind of opportunity God has provided for the students of BCS, and it includes not only a fantastic education, but more importantly an applicable and foundational education. This was honestly of God’s gifting as He provided me with a few ‘gimmes’ along the way and has provided for us so completely. Also, we have been able to work with more than a handful of high school students (from a variety of academic ranges) that spent their first 8-10 years in public schools, so we have an understanding of public school standards and expectations. This is not something we pursued, but that simply came to light.

That being said, I do know this truth: All education is an opportunity, whether you go to a public school, a private school, or homeschool. What actually becomes part of each one of us, as far as wisdom and knowledge, stems largely from the effort we put in. 

We can waste beautiful opportunities and then point our fingers and blame the system, but the truth is, our education is our responsibility.

I have witnessed beautiful minds emerge from home, public, and private schools. Because of a child’s brain development, this reasoning can appear wasted sometimes when presented to children, so we as parents and guardians, are challenged with the opportunity to disciple our children in the beauty of exercising and using our brains, putting effort into their own education. It is not a checkbox. When treated like a checkbox, any and every education will disappoint – regardless of the means. 

At BCS, Jesus is at the heart of everything we do. A life centered on Jesus is better than winning any lottery or having any amount of anything else. This largely influences the motivation in the above challenge. As we begin to unravel the mystery of His Love, pieces of this world begin to come together in our mind and heart bringing perseverance, caring about more than self, self-control, joy, peace, love… the list goes on with goodness. 

But at the end of the day, this is also simply an opportunity to begin a relationship with Jesus. I can’t force a child to follow Jesus nor can I force a child to care about their education… they are opportunities. The choices are theirs. Just like they are ours… and it’s never too late for any of us to grow and learn – in faith, wisdom, and knowledge.

While these choices are up to each individual, child and adult alike; we, as parents, can lead by example with humility and curiosity. There is so much for all of us to learn, no matter who we are. We have an infinite God – the learning will never cease. It can become a way of life and a journey. There is so much joy there. There is so much life there. It crushes the monotony and brings growth and change and adventure. 

So grab The Good Book and a pile of other books and start adventuring and learning and growing… and put effort into whatever you do – Let His light shine, and then watch in wonder as He reveals a new life for all who are willing to seize the opportunities placed in front of them. 

Godspeed.