Wisdom From 20 Years
By Terese Stevenson, President
As we look back at almost twenty years of serving, we reflect on what has been bedrock to steering our mission, on what has driven our culture, our motivation, our aspirations, and what has grounded our actions. Certainly, knowing we are people of faith, and you might say our common concern and love for others has been a critical attribute. You could also say keeping a spirit of generosity as priority has been foundational. Both are true. But when I contemplate what has been the thread that has woven all our efforts through two beautiful decades of work, I say it is Wisdom.
Wisdom has grounded us and wisdom has been our guide. We have sought wisdom both fervently and sometimes it finds us. It has been the anchor of our steps, it has been inherent in our relationship exchange, in contemplation of process and we recognize how it transforms our decision making. Wisdom is the lens through which we aim to view everyday life, it guides our 
community interactions and our relationship with our God. In the biblical wisdom writings Proverbs 4 challenges us:
“Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. 7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get[a] wisdom. Though it cost all you have,[b] get understanding. 8 Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you. 9 She will give you a garland to grace your head and present you with a glorious crown.”
Wisdom is actively pursued through listening, learning, seeking counsel, and scripture also states another truth– “walk with the wise and become wise.”
In the last two decades so many wise heads have been important in our learning and have given great counsel. They still do and will and we treasure these friendships. This has been a gift in informing our work. People grounded in wisdom are easy to recognize- “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom”. (James 3)
For me personally, I have had the great blessing over the last 19 years of walking in step with one of the wisest- T. Hardie, our former President. His wise counsel and imparted wisdom have taught me much and has enriched my life. More importantly, that Wisdom has infused the daily tone and culture of our workday and influenced all of us. Scripture also confirms that “the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere”. And T Hardie exhibited all this, and we are grateful.
As we move into the new Year, I aim to hold on to Wisdom, to keep true to her as I step into my new role of stewarding the The Rees-Jones Foundation. Wisdom will continue to be our guide and calling as we listen and learn, and then go forward carrying our mission into this next chapter of loving and serving others in the name of Christ.
Our New Year’s prayer: “Guide us in truth in peace and love, enable us to serve wisely and well. Show us wise and practical ways we can help others flourish, be fruitful and experience your abundance.”