There are graduations... and then there are graduations

Yesterday, I had the privilege and honor of attending the graduation ceremony of our much beloved friend, Sherlock. Sherlock's father stood at the podium and spoke of what a blessing his son is to him, what a delight he is to his mother and what a gifted and godly young man he is becoming. I couldn't agree more. Sherlock, there are very few young men like you. You are a rare jewel in Christ's kingdom.

It is not every graduation ceremony that focuses, not on academic achievement, but on spiritual maturity. It is not every graduation that a young man's father stands before him with Scripture opened charging his son with the responsibilities outlined for him in God's Word. It is not every graduate that sits at the feet of his pastor as he exhorts him to strive not after fame and fortune but after the very heart of God. No, there are not many graduations like this graduation.

I am humbled to be part of a congregation that is not afraid to place the Word of God before us as our standard. I am humbled to know families like Sherlock's family, who boldly step away from the traditions of man and embrace the old paths. I am humbled and challenged to watch this next generation on the precipice of the rest of their lives with more knowledge and understanding of the Lord than I had in my first forty years. What a bold witness they all are, not just to me, but to a fallen dying world.

Sherlock, thank you for including us in your ceremony. You are as a plant grown up and bring glory to your Lord, your parents and all who know and love you. Well done!

I couldn't speak on Sherlock's graduation without including a picture of his cake. You thought I made that, didn't you? I'd like to leave you with that impression. But, alas, this cake was made by a someone else. With skills. :-)