May 10th, 2023

Hey Church Family!

​Ah, graduation season.  I can remember my own it like it was yesterday.  Graduation season is special because it signals a significant milestone in a person's life.  One chapter is closing and a new chapter is beginning.  As we think about this season of graduation, we're reminded of some important life lessons.

For example, don't rush God's plan.  Often graduation is a rush to get to.  Remember wanting to graduate so quickly so that you could just move on with your life?  Any sort of waiting seemed impossible or worthless.  Certainly not beneficial.  Have you ever been too quick to do something, only to realize that had you waited a few more minutes or days, things would have turned out better for you?  When God gives a promise, you can count on him to keep that promise.  Attempting to fulfill God's promises on our own timetable always brings pain.  Just ask Abraham and Sarah.  And Hagar and Ishmael.  When you rush God's plan, it never leads to the life God desires for you.  So, don't rush God's plan.

Another thought in graduation season is to listen to the right voices.  Who you listen to really matters.  It's why, as parents, we are picky about who our kids pick for their friends.  When I was a youth pastor, I often had teenagers come up to me frustrated with their parents who seemed out of touch with reality.  All the teenagers wanted to do was what their friends wanted—so why wouldn't their parents let them?  I often asked, "Why would you ignore the voices of the people who love you and care deeply for you—like your parents and your youth pastor?"  If you only listen to the voices who tell you what you want to hear, you'll end up in place you don't want to be.  Just ask Rehoboam (see 1 Kings 12).  Who's voice are you listening to?

There are many lessons to learn at graduation season.  I'm curious what lessons did you learn?  What do you wish someone had told you at your graduation?  What advice did you ignore?  What lessons do you think of when graduation season comes around?  How have you changed since your High School graduation?  Where do you see God at work in our young people today?

I pray you have a blessed week!

Together in Christ,
Pastor Michael