The next few weeks will hold many graduations.  As young people take the next step in their learning process and move closer to their dreams, they will be faced with new challenges.  They will leave the security of their past and lunge into a totally different realm.

My first grandson will take that step tomorrow night as he graduates from high school.  I have mixed feelings about this special day.  I still remember the day he was born  – this tiny life – this precious child – this helpless little boy who grew so quickly into a young man. Even as I write this, I can still see him snuggling up to our golden retriever pup – wearing grandpa’s boots – banging on pot covers in the kitchen. 

He has spent his entire education so far with the same classmates in a K-12 Christian academy.  He has led a somewhat sheltered life and now is about to spread his wings and fly.  Needless to say, I am extremely proud of this child.  He has developed into a strong Christian, with equally strong values and the love of God firmly planted in his heart.  His mind has grown along with his body.  He’s the one my other grandson refers to as “the walking encyclopedia.”  He has had the opportunity to share his faith on two separate mission trips in his short life. 

All graduates have so much to look forward to.  Their lives will never be the same once the cap and gown come off.  They will be exposed to new lessons every day as they enter a different facet of their existence.  They will enter a world of temptation, fear of not succeeding, possible bullying for their beliefs – a world that will challenge everything they have been taught to believe –  but if they have a firm foundation, they will never fail. 

I could be afraid for my grandson because the world is an ugly place.  He will have to stand strong to face the challenges that lie ahead, but I know that his faith is deeply rooted and that he has learned the one thing needful for this life.  Success isn’t measured by the things we accomplish, but what has been accomplished in us through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Dear Lord, as my grandson moves forward in his life, I pray that you would always be at his side.  Give him the necessary tools to strengthen him daily, to arm him with your protection and to give him the right words to spread your loving message to others.  Keep me from being too proud or from shedding too many tears on this very special day for him.  I pray that he will continue to trust in you always.  You are the sure foundation upon which he can rely.

CONGRATULATIONS, JORDAN – I LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART!