Welcome to today’s graduation.  It is a special day – for the graduates, for their proud parents and grandparents, and for their teachers. 

Today is one of those great occasions when we get to celebrate our young people – their achievements, their perseverance, and their successes as they grow. Graduation is seen as an official way to recognize when a person is ready for the next phase of their life, and graduates you are ready.  You have learned much through the years.

Eighth grade…I pray that you will wake each morning

and search for God throughout your day.

That you will meet the challenges life

tosses your way with prayer and confidence.

That the toys and noise of this world

will not reflect in your eyes.

That life will be an adventure with Christ;

not too predictable or overly planned.

That you will make time to be available to Him.

I pray that when you see a need

you will do your best to meet it.

When you see fear you will give comfort.

When you see anger you will respond with patience.

When you see injustice you will defend.

When you see a life without Christ

you will make an introduction.

I pray that when you are in need you will go

to Him and graciously accept the help He sends.

When you are afraid you will curl up in His loving arms.

When you are angry you will look at the situation

through His eyes.

When you are treated unfairly you will seek

His comfort and guidance.

I wish you joy with just enough discomfort

so you will appreciate the joy.

I wish you prosperity with just enough struggle

to make you responsible and generous.

I wish you peace but not enough to make you complacent.

Embrace the life He gives you,

always seek His face,

always hope, always dream,

work hard, pray hard

serve often, laugh often

And love unconditionally…as He has always loved you.

This is the end of one part of your journey and the beginning of the next.  It has been an honor being part of your journey.  May God watch over you and guide you – always.

Congratulations my friends!