This week my thoughts centered on graduation. From preschool to postgraduate, I have always loved Graduation Ceremonies. In some quarters, these events are called Commencement Exercises. I think both names are appropriate because as Jesus said in Revelation 22:13, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end."

Commencement or Graduation, marks the beginning of a new phase in the life of the graduate, and it also marks the end of the educational process.

As the graduates move forward to the next phase in their lives, their parents and other love ones who supported them, can take great comfort in the knowledge that God will be with them in the transition and beyond.

Read to these words of encouragement from the Word of the Lord.

Isaiah 40:31 tells us:
“... but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Proverbs 3:5,6 commands us to:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge the Lord and God shall direct your paths."

We continue to attend Commencements and Graduations, as we celebrate the Alpha and the Omega of the educational cycle. I commend these fine graduates with a blessing taken from Numbers 6:24-26.

"May the Lord bless you and keep you;
May the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
And May the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace."

Congratulations and Godspeed, to the Class of 2019.