Tim McAboy, Head of School

“We are a Broom Tree Community.”

This is the answer I’ll often give when someone asks me about Zeeland Christian School. Without fail, my answer is returned with a quizzical look, giving me a chance to explain about Elijah, the searing heat of the desert, a scrawny shrub, and a school impacting the world with Christ’s love.

In 1 Kings 19, Elijah is fleeing Queen Jezebel, knowing if he’s caught he’ll face near-certain death. He runs a full day into the wilderness, coming to a broom tree and hoping to die. He says, “I have had enough, Lord. Take my life; let me die.” He falls asleep, awakened by an angel with food and water. The angel says, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.”

Elijah was experiencing the depths of fatigue and discouragement many of us can relate to. Many of us know what it’s like to be in the searing heat of the desert.

The broom tree doesn’t look like much, but in the heat of the desert, it can mean life or death. It’s not a long-term solution, but it’s enough for the moment.

For over 100 years, Zeeland Christian has sought to be a Broom Tree Community. We equip students to enter the world and impact it for Christ. Our students don’t have the solution to every problem, but they leave Zeeland Christian with a desire to be shade in the desert for someone in need. Additionally, ZCS is a community where all students find a place to belong.

So, as Christian parents and Christian educators, we keep this vision in front of us as we take on this awesome task. We have the privilege of nurturing students through this process, speaking truth into their lives, surrounding them with our support, seeing challenges as opportunities for them to grow, and always leaning heavily on our Lord Jesus Christ.

As I’ve learned and you already know, Zeeland Christian School is a special place. Thank you to each of you for the way you love and support this amazing community. Let’s continue to work together for the good of our students and for the glory of God!

A Broom tree.