Noel Thomason
Head of School
“Press on toward the goal, striving to win the prize to which God calls us in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14)
There are aspects of life where the true worth of investment cannot be so easily quantified. Consider the case of preparedness—particularly in the context of national defense. The vast sums spent on ensuring that a nation is ready for conflict are, paradoxically, best measured by an outcome that we pray will never come to pass. To fully gauge the effectiveness of such preparedness, one would need to experience the very calamity it seeks to prevent—a price far too great to contemplate.
Another area where the return on investment defies simple calculation is in the realm of human capital and cultural transformation. StoneBridge, in recent times, has been the beneficiary of generous support from those who share in our mission. These investments have been channeled into transforming our campus, not merely for the sake of physical improvement, but to enhance our ability to fulfill our higher calling.
The dividends from these investments may not be tallied in financial statements, but they will be recorded in a more enduring ledger. The true return will be seen in lives touched, in a community strengthened, and in a light that shines more brightly in the world—reflecting the words we all long to hear: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
A Pivotal Moment
As I mentioned in a letter sent to our faculty and staff in August, StoneBridge stands at a pivotal moment in its journey. The unwavering support and profound sacrifices of so many have brought us to the threshold of long-sought goals that once appeared insurmountable. This collective effort has ignited within us a renewed vigor and a profound sense of purpose.
It is tempting, after the completion of a significant endeavor like our new building, to believe that we have arrived at our destination and may now rest. Yet, this accomplishment serves not as the end, but as a foundation—fortifying our resolve and readying us for the greater challenges that lie ahead. These new facilities are more than mere symbols of achievement; they are the strongholds from which we shall advance our mission with heightened readiness and ever-deepening commitment.
In this shared journey, our focus will turn to the noble task of cultivation this year. We shall center our efforts on the profound Biblical mandate to nurture and uphold a creative culture designed to bless all humanity and to manifest the true nature and character of God.
As I noted at the beginning of the summer, we must transcend our roles as mere critics, consumers, imitators, and denouncers of culture and instead cultivate a culture defined by knowing and trusting in God’s Word, pursuing uncommon unity, making bold disciples, and having a Kingdom mindset. It is a culture where each family understands their partnership with StoneBridge is an integral part of our mission and ministry.
Prepared with Purpose
Let us ready ourselves, in both spirit and action, for the next chapter of this shared journey. We have not been called to rest upon our past achievements, but to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. With our gaze fixed steadfastly, we press on toward the goal, striving to win the prize to which God calls us in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14). As we move forward, we do so not only with renewed strength but with a deepened sense of purpose, inspired to make a lasting impact. The best is yet to come!
In this spirit, we invite each of you to join us—united in faith and steadfast in prayer. We ask that you uphold StoneBridge daily, lifting us up before the Lord. Let us never forget, as we advance together, that the battle is not ours alone; it belongs to the Lord.
PRAYER POINTS FOR STONEBRIDGE 2024-2025
- Pray for students, teachers, and staff to be empowered by the Holy Spirit to pursue excellence in education.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to bring His Word to Life in each classroom.
- Pray that each student’s education would meet them individually–body, soul, and spirit–and be effective.
- Pray that Christ’s character would be formed in each student–producing fruits of righteousness.
- Pray for peace from God to pursue excellence in His strength.
- For unity among our entire SBS community, building a culture in which all students can thrive.
