As I gathered with the Seniors and their families on Sunday evening I was proud that they were there to affirm their faith. I reminded them that it was a bittersweet time and that is exactly how it is supposed to be. Parents are holding on for dear life and for the seniors, "Life is Good." This is what you have worked for, but now the day has come.
Last week, Twitter had an American Express advertisement that showed hands holding a baby's foot with the question, "What do you see in the future?"
I imagine most of the parents have asked and answered that question a thousand times. I brought along a suitcase full of stuff with some of the answers: soccer cleats, ballet shoes, hiking boots, childhood items. But I would suggest it's not necessarily your ability but the lessons you have learned from soccer, dance, scouts, drama, softball, the classroom that needs to last a lifetime.
When you are in the grind, there is no room for hope, there just isn't because we are pushing too hard. Perhaps our only answer to the question, "What do you see in the future?", should be "sandals". (The kind Jesus wore.) There is nothing more important than being or having children that are faithful disciples who travel lightly. In biblical times, they didn't have a choice but to travel lightly.
The movie "The Race to Nowhere" points out that while the race has a few winners, the course is littered with emotional baggage. The good news is our faith tells us we don't need a suitcase full of stuff, we just need God. John Ortberg at Frederic Buechner's blog suggest: God wishes to be seen, wishes to be sought, wishes to be expected, and wished to be trusted. I would add "wishes to be carried with you."
In a recent spelling bee (where kids are crazy smart) they asked one participant, "What will you take with you?" Her response was I will take with me: "A suitcase full of happy memories, great friends, and a true feeling of acceptance." So as you journey on there is an empty suitcase before you. With graduation, you are to commit to the journey, not the outcome. You never make "it" elusive.
While there is plenty telling you right now that it is all about you. You know Becky will always tell you it isn't about you. As a Christian you have signed up for a life of service, regardless of what you major in, what school you go to, or what degree you secure. The most important questions you can ask is where is God at work in my new community and how can I join in?
Everyone has an empty suitcase ready for life's new journey; you may try on several outfits to find one that fits, but available to you is a wardrobe of magnificent potential.
Many of us were saddened this week by the death of Maya Angelou. Her last tweet was: "Listen to yourself and in that quietitude you might hear the voice of God." I want to give each of you a chance to hear that voice as we listen to the song, "Suitcases" by Dara Maclean.
In packing a new suitcase the first step is discernment. While each of you have some vague notions and hopes regarding what the end result of campus life, or empty nest, or one child might look like, it's difficult to say or commit any one thing. It is important to trust the work of the holy spirit, to lead and guide in this next place.
Parents in all the excitement of the next few months your children may be too busy to say they love you or thank you. They may not always text you back right away next year at college but I know these young people and I can promise you for them when they lay their head down at night-they will think of you and wonder if you are okay and they will pray for you.
Thank you for the gift you have given me in each of your children.
Blanket Presentation
Becky:
Parents, when Mary and Joseph searched for Jesus and found him in the temple talking with the elders, they realized that Jesus was no longer a child. This is such a moment. We rejoice with you as we recognize your sons and daughters as young men and women. We stand with you to support you as they begin their journey to adulthood.
Youth Workers:
(Let us pray.) God of mercy and love, enfold these parents with your grace. Increase in them the spirit of wisdom and understanding. Teach them how to truly listen with a spirit of love, patience and gentleness. Bless these parents as they watch their sons and daughters enter into adulthood. Strengthen and uphold then as they comfort their sons and daughters, remembering that they can neither walk the journey for them, nor shield them from pain. Carry them safely through this journey so that they may stand together as adults and friends. Amen.
Becky:
Graduates, there was a day when your parents held you in their arms and rocked you to sleep. They cuddled you in a blanket to keep you warm, safe and comforted. Very soon you will be launching a new life, away from safety and security of your home, family, church and community. As you go in this world, may this blanket be a reminder of your parent's love and the nurture of this Christian community. And on those nights when we cannot wrap you in our arms, may you wrap yourself in this blanket and know that in God's family you are never alone.
Jim:
(Parents, please repeat after me.)
Thank you for the gift you been to us. You have given our lives a deeper meaning and a deeper calling. As you begin to build the life that will be your own, we stand with you and support you. May we be patient and understanding, ready to guide and forgive, that in our love for you, you may know the love of God. You are holy and wonderful and blessed. We are your parents and we support you on this journey.
Becky:
(Seniors, repeat after me.)
Thank you for being there when I need you the most. You have loved and cared for me even when it was difficult. I honor you for your courage, patience, wisdom and love. Wherever I go, your love and example will continue to bless me. Whatever I choose, I know that God will help show me the way. I am your child and I will always love you.
Communion
