As I ponder this year’s school theme, “Redeeming the Time,” my thoughts keep
wandering back to my high school years many ages ago. In my school’s chapel auditorium, huge
paintings depicting Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry graced the giant walls. In between the
paintings were quotations that beckoned a response. Even now I see vividly a particular one: “I
shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human
being; let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this away again.”
(Etienne de Grellet, Quaker Missionary).
For WCA, “this way” is School Year 2025-2026. It is no accident that we are here
together at this moment. It is here where we will redeem the time by building each other up in
the faith. It is here and now that teachable moments are our lesson plans’ backdrops – those
unwritten agenda that translate to unconscious preparations from Christ’s lovingkindness to the
hearts of students, parents, and teachers alike. It is here “this way” that WCA must live out the
command: “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time,
because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16).
It has been said that time is the most precious commodity in all the world. This is true
because time is irreplaceable; it stands still for none of us. Unfortunately, meaningless pursuits
that deliver needless anxiety have swayed the pendulum of too many. Regardless of our station in
life, you and I must reckon with time; more importantly, we must pursue the greater task of
redeeming the time or seizing opportunities. The question is not whether the Lord will send
these; rather, are you and I prepared to respond accordingly.
Are You Ready?
Are you ready, O Sinner,
To admit you are lost?
No hope for tomorrow;
Today’s sorrows pay the cost.
Ah, prideful soul, be still,
And listen to the crowd
As they lead Jesus on
To mock Him at the Cross.
Are you ready, O Christian,
To leave your all behind?
Ambitions and riches –
Not enough reasons to pine.
Ah, restless soul, be still,
And listen to the cries
As multitudes around you
Live and die without Christ.
Are you ready, O Backslider,
To come back home today?
Your Father awaits you.
Just head on back to stay.
Ah, carnal soul, be still,
And listen to Christ’s plea
As He stands here waiting –
Just touch Him now and see.
Are you ready, O Saint,
To enter to thy rest?
Your race is about over.
Yes, you have done your best!
Ah, weary soul, be still,
And listen for the trump
As the Savior beckons you –
To Glory Home, at last!
V. A. Holding