Keep your circle small

This week in chapel, our secondary students were encouraged by Mr. Saunders’ (HCA Head of School) message about Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46). He shared how Jesus faced deep sorrow knowing what was to come, reminding us that Jesus knows what it’s like to feel overwhelmed and that He was both fully God and fully human. Even Jesus wanted His friends nearby during tough times. He began with 11 disciples, then invited His closest friends, Peter, James, and John, to go further with Him. Mr. Saunders explained that when we face hard times, we should lean on a few trusted people for support. Not everyone needs to know, or can handle, our struggles—often a small circle is best.

In the most important step of the process, Jesus showed us the value of taking our worries to God. Mr. Saunders encouraged us to be honest and open with God, because that’s when we experience His comfort and draw closer to Him, just as Jesus did in the garden. Jesus woke up Peter after he fell asleep while Jesus was praying. Jesus knew Peter would soon face a big challenge—he would deny knowing Jesus three times- so Jesus wanted Peter to stay close. Mr. Saunders reminded us that God uses these moments in our lives to help us grow stronger. Even when we make mistakes or feel weak, God is at work in us, shaping our hearts.

Thank you, Mr. Saunders, for reminding us to trust Jesus through both the peaks and the valleys.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7