"You are the light of the world. A city 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 men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16

The Lord Jesus Christ told His listeners that they were the light of the world, and as light, they must shine brightly not only to illumine their surrounding, but also to give glory to God. This seems to be a strange message. Why would Jesus tell people what a light was supposed to do? People already knew that a light was supposed to shine. Why would Jesus tell people to put a lighted lamp on a stand? This was something that was already practiced in every household.

Perhaps Jesus identified one important element about the lives of his followers at that time. Perhaps He understood that many of his followers had failed to realise who they were and the reason for their existence. Many of them were suffering from significant stresses and demands that diminished their ability to provide sufficiently from day to day food and clothing. Many felt that they were stuck and could not do the things they wanted to do. Some even felt that life was unfair. With so many life demands and worries, it was easy to focus on miseries and forget that God had wanted them to be the light of the world and to have a positive impact to those around them.

I believe that Jesus’ message is also highly relevant to us today. Each one of us in the PHS community, student, teacher, staff and volunteer is certainly not here by accident. We need to remember and realise our calling, that is, we are to be the light of the world. God, who is the Light, has already provided the necessary resources for the light to shine in each one of us.

Just as God has placed His breath of life in us, He has also ignited a spark within each one of us to shine for Him. As you look through the pages of Harvest, you may find pictures of your friends and teachers. I encourage you to see the spark within each one and thank God for these people who have made an impact in your life. When you come across your own picture, I encourage you to see how you, as a light of the world, can shine brightly for those around you.

On behalf of the students and the School Management Board, I would like to thank our Principals, teachers and all staff for being the light and for shining brightly among our students. We pray that God will continue to enable you to illumine the minds and spirit of every student.

To all students, the School Management Board prays that your light will burn passionately and brightly as you develop and grow at PHS. May God use you to remove the darkness in this world and enable you to sparkle with great and wonderful deeds.

To God be the glory.

Elder Dr Alex Lee