It’s a pleasure to introduce our new theme for the 2025-26 school year, “Let Your Light Shine.” It comes from Matthew 5:16, one of the opening verses of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. After Jesus describes his definition of the Good Life—or the Beatitudes—he tells his followers that they are the salt of the earth and the light of the world.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Called To Shine – Selecting This Year’s Theme
I actually keep a list of possible theme verses that speak to me throughout the year as I read and study the Bible. A lot of times, there are one or two that settle in my heart. I think about them a lot during the preceding year, studying those passages and reflecting on them. I feel like God’s Spirit and Word direct me in that selection.
I also think about verses that fit together in a larger goal for the school. Many of the theme verses over the past few years are thematically connected to the way we think about and interact with others. Westbury Christian is a special place—full of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences—and we can model Christian unity and harmony to a world that seems to lack that.
This year’s verse really speaks to that opportunity. There’s a strong connection to Jesus’ words in this passage and the prophet Isaiah. The prophet makes a clear connection between the Light, God’s instruction, and a city on a mountain. Jesus echoes this metaphor and invites his followers to live lives that shine his light to a dark world around them. We get to play a role in this bigger Story. We can be a beacon of hope through the way that we live our lives.
A Beacon of Hope for the Year Ahead
I hope this passage gives our students and educators encouragement and hope as they learn and grow this year. Through class discussions, lessons, and chapel, I hope we all come to a deeper understanding of what Jesus is teaching and calling us to in his Sermon on the Mount. We are invited to play a role in His Story. That’s an incredible privilege and honor! More importantly, I hope that we grow in our desire to do good deeds and let our light shine for God’s glory.
I am excited for the upcoming school year and all that will take place. I’ve learned that God has plans in store for us that far exceed my imagination. I can’t wait to see what they are!
Mr. Nathan Wagner, Head of School
