Jr High Blog

After enjoying our annual Open House over the weekend, I reflected on what it means to be a community. According to AI, “A community is important because it provides a sense of belonging, support, and shared experiences, allowing individuals to feel connected to others, access help when needed, and contribute to a larger purpose, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being and mental health. Essentially, humans are social creatures who thrive in environments where they feel like they are part of a group.” While accurate and to the point, AI’s summary is missing one thing: heart. Yes, community is important because it fulfills our need for belonging, but, as believers, community is also what God calls us into. In community we serve one another just as Christ has served us.

If we look to God’s Word, we see many examples of the importance of community in the lives of believers. Hebrews 10:24–25 urges believers to meet together and encourage each other to love and do good works. 1 Peter 4:8–11 calls for believers to love one another and show hospitality. In John 13:35, Jesus says that people will know His disciples by how they love one another. Galatians 5:13 instructs believers to serve one another. Romans 12:15 tells believers to rejoice and weep together, sharing in each other's triumphs and trials. Even AI confirms what God tells us in His Word—community is important! As Christ followers, we know this is according to God’s design.

Here at Cascade Christian Schools, we have a special community that does an excellent job of glorifying God and supporting one another. I have heard others ask what makes CCS so unique, and I believe that something is YOU! You show up. You commit. You serve, love, and connect. We know that God has brought each of us here, and that creates a sense of purpose-driven community. I have been deeply moved more times than I can count by the way you love one another. I have watched you gather around families who have been through loss, provide meals, pray for one another, and celebrate big wins. I have witnessed you doing hard work, leading our children by example, and standing up for what is right. Honestly, I could probably spend days giving testimony about how impactful this community is. However, in the interest of time, I must sum it up with a heartfelt thank-you. Please keep sharing with one another. Never discount just how much you matter in this place. We would not be the community we are without you!