Context: In this assembly, we shared our start-of-term liturgy. In it, the Gospel reading was Matthew 7:24-27; the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders.
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
Last week, I attended a funeral for a former colleague in Rotorua. His name was Garry “Gazza” Hyde. There was a significant gathering of past and present staff as well as old boys of the school.
Gazza was the Property Manager and, in later years, the Technology Technician. In total, he worked for more than 25 years at Rotorua Boys’ High School.
Gazza was a selfless man. He gave tremendous service to the school and contributed far beyond the roles he was employed to do.
For many years, he was the basecamp steward of our Year 10 camp held in the Whirinaki Forest, and he also managed the school’s First XV for many years—just two examples of his additional contributions.
Gazza was a good man. A kind man. A generous man. He was universally loved by students and staff alike.
You may be wondering why I am sharing stories about a man to whom none of you have a connection—at least none that I am aware of. Gazza was a man who built his life on a solid rock.
There’s a powerful question in this message for us: Are we building our lives on the solid rock of Christ’s teachings and example?
Individually, reflect on whether you’re being kind, being respectful, and whether you are sharing Jesus’ love and teachings with everyone you encounter. Pope Francis terms this a ‘passionate missionary.’
Please remember, it costs you nothing to be kind, respectful, and compassionate. This is at the heart of being an Aquinian.
Go well this term, students. Remember, every day is a fresh start and a new chance to learn, grow, and be your best self. Embrace challenges, support each other, and keep striving for personal excellence. Let’s make this term one to remember!