Insights

Christmas is a season of well-wishes, often expressed in blessings like, “Wishing you health and happiness this Christmas.” In 1938, Harvard researchers began a groundbreaking study to explore what factors most contribute to health and happiness. This study, which continues today, has followed over 700 men throughout their lives and now extends to their descendants. The findings are fascinating. While some predictors of health and happiness, such as genetics, are beyond our control, many are within reach. Avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, pursuing education, and cultivating adaptability all contribute to a fulfilling life. But the greatest predictor of health and happiness is stable, long-term relationships.
 

At Logos Prep, we’ve been exploring the concept of excellence. True excellence stems from the character of God, who is the ultimate standard of excellence and the God of relationships. While excellence often brings to mind achievement and success, it is deeply rooted in service, sacrifice, humility, and meaningful relationships. This is beautifully illustrated in the Christmas story, which centers on God’s desire for a relationship with us. Sin once separated us from God, but in His love, He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, born as a baby who would grow to give His life on the cross for our sins. Through this act, God made a way for reconciliation and eternal relationship with Him.
 

As Logos Prep parents, we recognize that your relationship with your children is vitally important and something you strive to nurture with excellence. Yet, during the holiday season, it’s easy to measure our relational success by worldly standards: Are we buying the perfect gifts, decorating extravagantly, cooking favorite meals, and planning memorable activities? While these efforts are well-meaning, they can sometimes distract us from creating the heart connections that truly matter. We can become so consumed with doing what we think makes us excellent parents, spouses, or friends that we miss opportunities to simply be present and connect meaningfully.
 

Jesus offers us a higher standard of excellence. In 1 Corinthians 12:31, He points us to a “more excellent way”—the way of love, as described in the next chapter, often called the “love chapter.” Living in love and building relationships grounded in genuine care is the most excellent pursuit. As we enter this Christmas season, let’s set aside the busyness and embrace the love that defines the season. Remember, the people around us are the only treasures we touch each day that will reach eternity.
 

May you experience deep, meaningful connections this Christmas season.
To learn more about the Harvard study, visit The Harvard Study of Adult Development.
 

Tammy McIlvoy
Head of School
Logos Preparatory Academy