I put on a gown, gave a speech, received my diploma, and flipped my tassel.
I'm officially a high school graduate.
But, since this blog is not about me, I just want to use it to say a few words to my fellow graduates.
This is a huge moment in our lives. So everyone wants to tell us that graduation day is a day that is "all about you!" To be honest, it feels nice: everyone congratulating you, giving you money, and reminiscing over the way you used to be. It feels really great to be the center of attention for a day.
So it's hard to put the glory where it belongs: the Creator of the world and of us and the One who makes us victorious. I was blessed to have a God-centered graduation, with a pastor to speak and prayer sprinkled throughout. But not all of you will have that. How much more important, then, to remember that you have only made it this far because of Him!
Now, I'm not saying that, whenever someone shakes your hand and says, "Congratulations," you have to say, "Thanks, but I owe it all to God." It's true, but let's face it...it's hard to break out of your excitement and say that. So celebrate! Enjoy every moment (believe me, it will all be over before you know it)! Bask in the love and support family and friends will show you!
But when you take off your cap, hang up your gown, and flip through your pictures, remember the One who gave you everything. All the glory you've been given...lay it at the throne of God. Because, truly, you and I would not be graduating except that God provided you with a place of teaching and a mind to learn. It's hard to swallow our pride and realize that it was God all along. I know. I worked hard all my life to be the best student I could. But if God had not blessed my efforts, I wouldn't be able to read.
So what now?
If you, like me, have had your fill of this question, brace yourself. It's not over.
Obviously, you have some general idea of what you want to do. College, work, mission work, family...whatever is next. And have that plan. Know what you like to do and do it. Find the path God leads you to and walk in it.
But here's the answer I really want you to consider, for the times when you ask yourself this question: "Next, with every step and every breath, I want to glorify my Creator and Savior, in whatever path He lays before me. The path is foreign, and I cannot yet see around the bend, but I know that I will never be in the dark all alone. I know that God's word is a light for my path and I trust that His wisdom will guide me through the many decisions I have yet to make."
Dear fellow graduates, know that you are not alone. Know that your path was designed for you before the beginning of time. Know that God will guide you.
Brothers and sisters, stay grounded in the Word and the One who is the Word. They will not fail you. Be faithful to the faith that has brought you this far; it will also lead you Home.
And to all of you who aren't graduating high school (or college): Don't you still have to answer that question? "What next?" Every day is a repeat of that question. God is still guiding you. Your path is still laid out before your feet. Love is walking with you.
So flip your tassel, throw your cap in the air, and celebrate!
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