It is hard to believe that the end of the school year is less than two short months away. As I reflect on the passing of the days, I am struck by a mixture of disbelief at how swiftly the current school year has passed, and deep longing for the respite that summer promises. At the same time, I am acutely aware that there is still much to accomplish in the weeks remaining, though my mind is already focused on the school year to come. This year, I have encountered a host of challenges, joys, frustrations, and opportunities for encouragement and the deepening of faith, all while juggling the demands of daily administrative tasks. Striving to strike a balance between my work responsibilities and personal life has proven elusive once again, leaving me, at times, feeling weary as I sip my morning coffee.
The journey of leadership is often fraught with weariness. Yet as Christian principals, the path is illuminated by faith, resilience, and the enduring promise of renewal. In the words of C.S. Lewis, “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for extraordinary destiny.” As educators and leaders, it is essential for us to recognize that weariness is not a sign of weakness, but rather an opportunity for growth and transformation. In the face of adversity, we can draw strength from our Father who loves, strengthens, and carries us as we lead in such a time as this. God is the author of the extraordinary as we, ordinary as we are, faithfully follow His leading. The apostle Paul’s letter to the Galatians reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This exhortation speaks directly to the heart of leadership, urging us to persevere in our commitment to serving our students, staff, and communities—even in the face of weariness.
In his book, Leading with a Limp, Dan B. Allender explores the paradox of leadership, acknowledging that true leadership often emerges from moments of vulnerability and weakness. He writes, “Leadership is, at its core, about the passionate pursuit of the greatest good for others.” As we navigate the challenges of the school year, we are called to lead with humility, compassion, and unwavering faith. How reassuring it is to find solace in the words of Jesus—the ultimate servant-leader—who tenderly beckons, “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” In those inevitable times of weariness, we can find refuge in prayer, turning to our Heavenly Father to seek renewal and strength from the wellspring of His boundless grace. In the moments where we feel discouraged, the writer of Hebrews reminds us, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” In Philippians 4:6-7 the apostle Paul exhorts, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
So take heart, my fellow leaders. The weariness of this time in the school year presents a formidable challenge for us, but it also affords us an opportunity for spiritual growth and renewal. Through faith, resilience, wisdom, and perseverance, we can continue to lead with grace and courage and unwavering commitment. I leave you with these words from Isaiah 40:31, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint”. Let us claim those blessed promises each day as we step forth in the strength of our Lord to lead. May His strength and joy be yours.
Lonneke Brown is the Central Cohort Leader for Edvance, and Principal at Heritage Christian School in Linsday, ON.