Januarys in our school are full of tests and project presentations due to half-term grading. Walking through the school halls, one could see and feel the increased level of stress among the students and teachers. This elevated tension can be observed also in our country these days. Our political leaders have made the schism in our society even deeper by openly flirting with Russia and questioning our membership in the Europe Union (EU) and NATO. Many Slovaks filled city squares peacefully demonstrating not only against these signals but also expressing their disappointment with the quality of our justice system, health care, and education. The message to our leaders is clear:  we want to stay in EU and NATO, and we want our leaders to make Slovakia a good place for everybody, not just for their buddies and sponsors. We also keep reminding them that peace they speak so much about, goes hand in hand with justice and righteousness which they often distort or neglect. Once justice and righteousness are firmly established, peace appears as their consequence.

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It is easy to forget that Christmas is not only about commemorating Jesus’s birth in Bethlehem a long time but also is first and foremost about Jesus’ second coming to this world to complete his mission! The certainty of Jesus’ second coming “with power and glory” (Luke 21:25) is the source of our courage and hope when facing present catastrophes, wars, and problems. As Jesus said, “we can stand up and raise our heads” (Luke 21:26) knowing that all the world troubles pre-orchestrate and endorse Jesus’ second entry.  Jesus’ second coming and final victory also give meaning to our individual battles with evil. Even though we might lose them, our fights for justice and peace are in vain because we wage war on the victorious side. Every fight for justice and peace is also Jesus’ fight and this war will certainly be victorious. Continue reading →

In October, we traditionally celebrate the Reformation. It reminds us of grace as the prominent principle of God’s character. Through this grace we are forgiven and equipped to live a new life. God’s grace is the unifying ground for all people because by grace alone we breathe, move, and live. In these times of political, economic and racial divisions and wars, God’s grace should be the starting point of our journey towards reconciliation and peace. Grace is amazing and grace alone can lead us home.

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September in Slovakia traditionally means the beginning of a new school year. At the Lutheran Academy in Martin, Slovakia (LAMS) we opened 2024-2025 as always – worshipping and thanking God for all His care and help. Our school pastors Jana Bosákova and Natália Kacianová encouraged all of us to follow God’s guidance on our individual and academic life journeys. We all are on a walk with God who in Jesus Christ has revealed His ways to us and taught us his paths (Psalm 25:4).

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