Education Extra
Congratulations to Lydia Burnett from Crossroads Christian School, the recipient of the Annual Birmingham Christian Family (BCF) Scholarship! Burnett receives a $2,000 scholarship to the college or university of her choice. Read her inspiring words on how her Christian faith impacted her decision making throughout her high school career.
“Throughout my high school career, the Lord has presented me with many decisions to make.
What type of friend will I be? Turning to scripture, I chose to follow the example of Christ as he sought out those who were unseen by others. Being a class representative in Key Club has helped me to grow in my ability to lead large groups of people, understanding and learning to work with the strengths and weaknesses of individuals.
What type of student will I be? Just as Christ respected those around them listening affirming and encouraging, so must I. I must also be willing to apply criticism and display discipline as I study, desiring to learn and grow in knowledge.
What type of daughter will I be? Christ continually looked to the needs of others before his own. So, I must also choose to serve my family with love and compassion as I take on more chores, drive my brother to practice, and care for my grandfather next-door.
What type of worker will I be? Christ did all for the glory of all, setting an example for his disciples to follow. As I interacted with locals at the Farmers Market or helped customers at the Soccer Concession Stand, I must choose to be personable but professional with costumers and strive for excellence, encouraging coworkers to do the same.
Lastly, what type of future is in store for me? To God I look, asking Him to make straight my path and to guide my steps, remembering He holds my future in His hands. As the Lord leads me to pursue a career in missions and ministry, He has guided me to Covenant College. This option at first seemed impossible due to financial considerations, and I had to decide whether I would trust in God’s sovereign plan for my life. The Lord continued working, calling me to trust Him and dedicate myself to His plan regardless of how impossible it seemed. In choosing to trust the Lord, I continue to experience Him making straight my path in ways I never foresaw. From friends and family to work and school, Christ has used each of these decisions to mold me into the servant He desires me to be. As I continue my Christian walk, I will continue turning to Christ in scripture and in prayer seeking His direction and wisdom.”
Here are some additional inspiring words from the 2024 Finalists on how their Christian faith impacted their decision making throughout their high school careers. Runner-Ups Brayden Butler and Hunter Parsons each receive a $500 scholarship to the college of their choice.
Runner-Up Brayden Butler, from Alabama Connections Academy, says “Throughout my high school career, my Christian faith has been the cornerstone guiding my decisions, particularly in the face of adversity. The trajectory of my life shifted dramatically following a life-threatening motocross accident, an event that challenged not just my physical well-being but also my outlook on life’s purpose. In the aftermath of the accident, my family and I turned to our faith as a source of strength and comfort. Through constant prayer and the support of our community, we found the resilience to navigate through the darkest moments. This reliance on faith not only bolstered our spirits but also provided a framework for decision-making as I embarked on my high school journey. One of the most significant impacts of my Christian faith has been the realization of my purpose beyond mere personal aspirations. Instead of succumbing to sadness or bitterness, I recognized that my experiences could serve as a platform to inspire and uplift others. Guided by my faith, I made the decision to transition to online schooling, allowing me to prioritize both my role on the US para climbing team and my advocacy work within the disabled community.”
Runner-Up Hunter Parsons, from Oak Grove High School, shares “When I was young, a sense of responsibility beyond my years took hold of me. At just five years old, I felt the weight of circumstances I couldn’t fully understand. My mother, a single parent navigating the challenges of supporting two young children alone, found herself relying on faith and family to make ends meet. In my innocence, I believed that to help my mother, I needed to be older. By the time I turned thirteen, I began to actively contribute to our family’s income. I found tasks like mowing lawns, landscaping for neighbors, and eventually assisting in running a food truck to earn extra money. These experiences taught me a crucial lesson – it’s not the absence of certain individuals in our lives that define us, but rather, the presence of those who support us without fail. Life was not always easy for our trio, but together, we had a united front and relied on our faith to navigate life. My mother instilled in us values such as responsibility, a strong work ethic, and respect for others. Above all, she nourished our spiritual growth by making sure we attended church every Sunday, ensured we were active in a church youth group and constantly shared with us the teachings of Jesus Christ. Through these teachings I learned that the wealth of our family transcends material possessions.”
Top Five Finalist Adelaide Jowers, from Homewood High School, says “When you are a “doer” of the Word, your decisions can be tough. Your decisions can be unpopular. Your decisions can bring ridicule. However, my identity as a follower of Jesus Christ has given me the courage and freedom to choose wisely. I have learned I must have a Christian world and life view, where the anxieties of current events are seen through the lens of God’s sovereignty. I have learned that cultural affirmation is fleeting and rarely based on truth. I have learned that instant gratification, while instant, is not fulfilling. I have learned that truth is only true is if is rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ.” 
Top Five Finalist Sydni Jean, from Corner High School, shares, “My Christian faith has played a significant role in shaping my decision-making during my high school career. It has provided me with a moral compass and a set of values that guide my actions and choices. First and foremost, my faith has taught me the importance of honesty and integrity. In all my decisions, I strive to be truthful and transparent, knowing that honesty is a fundamental principle of Christianity. This has helped me maintain a sense of integrity in both my academic and personal life, avoiding dishonest behaviors such as cheating or lying.”
Visit www.birminghamchristian.com/scholarship to read each finalist’s full essay. Thank you to the over 150 applicants who applied for the scholarship. Special thanks to our Scholarship Sponsors: Alabama Credit Union, American Village, and Vulcan Termite and Pest Control. The 2024 Scholarship recipients will receive special recognition at the Baron’s Faith and Family Night on May 31, 2024 at Regions Field.
