High-Fives

by Adam Kronberger / Head of School

Perhaps the favorite part of my job is greeting students as they arrive on campus each morning with a “High Five.” Generally the welcome begins when the CCS bus arrives with students commuting from the Keizer Campus.  Whether I am greeting Kindergarten students, High School students, younger siblings, or the occasional parent, packing hundreds of “High Fives” in 15 minutes is part of my workout routine. It is a joy to attempt to let every student know that I see them and I know they have joined our community for the day.  Occasionally when my duties take me away from this routine, my day somehow feels incomplete.

Not all of the students share the same enthusiasm for this morning routing as I do. Many may arrive still half-asleep or working through the “morning grumpies”.   That’s OK.  My joy tank is full and overflowing and I’m always ready to share.  Between time with God at home, prayer with the teachers at school, and a Triple-Shot Irish Cream Latte, I can’t wait to joyfully greet  students.  I cherish the opportunity to put a smile on a groggy face, speak life into a dark morning, or share a burden by pointing others to the eternal source of all joy.

As Jesus was sharing his heart with his disciples near the end of his ministry, he explained how “these things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11).  The Savior of the world desires that His joy lives inside of us.  His joy is always complete and fills us up by invading every area of our life. His joy is not an idea, but rather an emotion and feeling as a result of daily seeking Him.  

My morning “High Five” party transitions quickly into the daily routine of school full of learning, growth, challenges, successes, failures, and the occasional “Extra High Five”.  It is in the daily rhythm of life that the Joy of the Lord brings fullness of life.  This Christmas season, as your morning quiet times quickly become exchanged for daily crazy times, remember the words of Jesus that His joy may be in you.  And if you happen to see me over Christmas Break, please don’t hesitate to give me a “High Five”.