by Clint Holden, M.A.
The exploration of whether Christian schooling is a right or a privilege unveils a transformative journey of sacrifice and commitment, grounded in the essence of equal access to education rooted in Christian values.
The Power of Sacrifice in Christian Education
For a parent, deciding to enroll their children in a Christian school often requires financial sacrifices and budget adjustments. Families might opt for an older car, delay buying a larger home, or reevaluate leisure spending, all in the pursuit of aligning with Christian principles over materialism. This echoes the profound biblical wisdom, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21). Sacrifice, often misunderstood, implies consciously prioritizing values over fleeting indulgences.
The Unseen Adjustments for Equal Access
In the realm of family finances, there exists the potential for some households to underestimate their expenditures and inadvertently disregard opportunities for potential savings. Considerations such as dining out, entertainment expenses like movie outings, an array of private lessons for children, various streaming services, and other discretionary spending may not always be perceived as excessive. This is where the concept of sacrifice, marked by the principles of self-denial and redirecting resources towards loftier objectives, assumes its crucial role.
A sermon by Pastor John Piper, titled "The Mind of Christ," introduces an insightful perspective on wisdom. He defines wisdom as follows: "Wisdom is the ability of the soul to perceive God-glorifying, Christ-exalting, gospel-fashioned, people-helping ways to live, with the knowledge God gives us." Expanding on this notion, he further states, "Wisdom is not the ability to memorize specific biblical rules of behavior. Wisdom is needed because so many of our decisions are not explicitly regulated by specific rules in the Bible."
This understanding of wisdom is particularly pertinent when considering matters of priorities and parenting. Take, for instance, the choices we make daily in allocating time to various activities: our eating habits, work commitments, exercise routines, sleep patterns, reading preferences, interactions with others, prayer time, engagement with God's Word, and myriad other aspects of life. In these instances, divine dictation does not prescribe precise proportions of time to be devoted to each domain. Instead, the application of our priorities becomes a personal journey influenced by wisdom—a journey that embodies our relationship with God, our understanding of His teachings, and the discernment to navigate the complexities of our lives.
And what about parenting? Piper states, “I daresay that ninety-five percent of the daily, specific decisions we face in parenting are not laid down for us in Scripture. But we have to decide. Parents don’t have the luxury of postponing how they think a child should be reared. We are deciding every hour how to do it.”
So, here's the deal: Parents are faced with a choice when they think about sending their kids to a Christian school. If all they're fixated on is the cost, chances are they might not be getting their priorities straight when it comes to giving their children a Christian education. On the flip side, if they're willing to embrace some sacrifice, it's a sign that they're putting their values in the right place and recognizing the importance Christian schooling can provide their children.
The Burden and Beauty of Sacrifice
The burden of sacrifice in providing a Christian education lies on parents, not schools. While this journey might not be easy, its significance resonates deeply. We live in a society where instant gratification is common, but the path of sacrifice instills enduring values. Today's parents follow in the footsteps of those who laid the foundation of Christian education, often through sweat and tears. Their grit and sacrifice built the framework we now cherish.
A Glimpse into Sacrificial Christian Schooling's Past
In the earlier days of Christian schools, families would commit to significant sacrifices to provide a faith-infused education. They might secure second mortgages or even sell their homes to ensure their children's access to Christian education from K-12. This selflessness, reminiscent of the widow's offering as depicted in Mark 12:41-44, signifies a level of dedication that's both inspirational and aspirational.
Embracing the Path with Trust
As we navigate the intricate path of sacrifice and equal access, let’s take comfort in the wisdom of Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will direct your path." This verse is a clear admonition and reminder that even in the face of uncertainty, God is trustworthy. This is how we can live at peace in all circumstances – when we do what God says is best, rather than what we think is best. So, what is best here, according to Proverbs 3:5-6? Trust in God with your whole heart, not just your head. Trust Him. Not yourself.
The Journey of Faith and Unity in Christian Schools
The conversation about whether Christian schooling is a right or privilege weaves together dedication and togetherness in a beautiful way. I get that making a big financial decision to send your child to a Christian school can feel pretty daunting, maybe even impossible at first glance. But you know what? It's all about the small sacrifices; it’s about trusting God, implicitly - like taking a closer look at your spending and embracing a simpler lifestyle, that really captures the heart of Christian living. But what are you called to as a Christian parent - one who embraces deeply biblical values? Trusting God for everything.
This journey isn't just about money; it's about faith and coming together. It's about weaving a tapestry of unity that connects families from all walks of life, creating a community of shared values and aspirations, and prioritizing our kids above ourselves.
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