Mission Moment

Dear Covenant Families,

We often encounter closed doors that leave us feeling rejected and disheartened. Yet, it's in these moments that we must remember that God closes doors to present us with greater opportunities that align with His divine plan. What if we always faced rejection as a positive redirection? This could be a powerful reminder that what seems like a setback is often a setup for something far more meaningful and beautiful. 

I recently read a novel where the protagonist explores alternate versions of her life, opening closed doors and walking right through them. Though each version offers its own allure, the character discovers that essential people and relationships are missing in these alternate realities. The life she was intended to live was far greater than those she could have constructed on her own. This novel was the perfect reminder that every path left open to us is intricately woven to create a life filled with love, purpose, and God's intention. Sometimes, closed doors are not just detours but reminders to cherish God’s love for us and to fully embrace all that is possible. 

In college, a professor once shared a poignant story about her discovery that her first child would be born with a congenital disorder. She related it to the planning of a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. You plan every single detail of your amazing trip to Paris and look forward to it for months and months, but when your plane lands, you realize you are in Holland. Initially, the disappointment of not being in Paris consumes your every thought and emotion, but slowly you start to see the beauty of Holland. You begin to notice the charm and splendor– the tulips, the windmills, the culture. The unexpected can reveal hidden blessings and opportunities that might have been missed had your plan been enacted over God’s. 

In 2025, the college admissions landscape has been a labyrinth filled with unpredictability and heightened competition. The Southeast, in particular, has seen a surge in applications from students all over the country. Students who meticulously plan their high school lives with a particular end in mind may find themselves facing rejection from their dream schools. Yet, this seemingly devastating turn of events is actually an invitation to explore new paths and discover unexpected blessings elsewhere. Much like landing in Holland, the unexpected destination can lead to a place filled with opportunities and growth that were not initially considered. 

During this time, students often find themselves navigating complex emotions. They may feel excited for their friends who achieve their dream school admissions while simultaneously feeling disappointed about their own rejections. It is a delicate balance of celebrating others' success and managing personal setbacks. These experiences, though challenging, are crucial for personal growth. Through struggle, students learn resilience, empathy, and the importance of building strong relationships. They develop a greater capacity for gratitude and perseverance. It is fitting that we have studied Jeremiah in the Rhetoric School this year. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

At The Covenant School, we encourage students to trust in the journey that God has ordained for them, even and especially when it is difficult. We teach our students that the learning process is a far greater gift than the grade or the test score or most certainly the college bumper sticker. By providing them with a robust educational foundation and the necessary tools to live their lives in service to our Lord, Jesus Christ, we prepare them to navigate life's many uncertainties with grace and confidence, faith and reliance on His truth. 

The message remains clear: God closes doors to guide us toward His greater purpose. Rejection is not the end but a redirection to something greater. At The Covenant School, we are committed to helping our students embrace this truth and pursue their God-given potential with unwavering faith and determination. For in every closed door lies the promise of new opportunities and the unfolding of God's magnificent plan for each of us. 

Non Nobis,

Angela Traywick
Director of College Counseling