The Real Question

If you had a chance to say one thing to the graduating class of 2013, what would it be? Would you encourage them to eat less carbs? Possibly tell them to start saving money now? Maybe suggest they backpack through Europe and see the world while they can? Perhaps you’d share with them your favorite verse or give them some advice about some things that you would have done differently when you were their age.

Well, that was the opportunity I was given yesterday afternoon as I was invited to speak at a local baccalaureate. It was quite an honor considering I wasn’t even sure I knew how to spell such an occasion. (I’m glad that most folks are cool with the “Bacc.” abbreviation!) Anyway, you may be wondering what I said to them. I told them a bunch of stuff but essentially honed-in on God’s intentional plan and purpose for their lives (Psalm 139:13-18, Jeremiah 1:5, Matthew 10:30, Acts 17:24-28).

I’ve watched many of those students grow up over the years, so it was very special to be allowed the privilege to speak truth into their lives. These times are exciting because there is always so much hope for what the future might bring for these young individuals… But let’s get back to the question of what YOU would say?

The reason I ask is because it doesn’t have to be simply hypothetical. Most of us know students that are moving on to that next chapter in life, and there will be chances to share a good word. In fact, on May 19^th, our New Beginnings family will have a unique opportunity to write a note of encouragement or drop-off a card for our graduating seniors. For more information you can contact Jeff@nbchurch.info or follow @NBFamiles on twitter.

Secondly, I’m guessing that some of you reading this are parents of younger children. Maybe this question is a reminder that the day is coming for all of us, when our sweet children will be moving on. Perhaps it’s time to start modeling some of what we’d say, structuring our homes in such a way that will purposefully engage our children with Christ. Maybe the reality of how quickly time flies will help us refocus.

Finally, family ministry is always bigger than your own! We are called to support each other as we consider ways to spur one another on to love and do good deeds (Hebrews 10:23).  So, whom might you encourage & love on? What parents are facing major changes after their youngest child graduates? What young family needs to know there is light at the end of the tunnel? What have you learned that would benefit someone else?

Basically I’m asking this: what do you have to offer and will you share? As we bring our gifts, resources, and experiences together, we grow in our faith and learn to love like Christ, fulfilling the call of the church. May we not merely seek for our own but for the good of others, for the glory of the Father.