Stepping Stones

Thousands of tassels have turned and many of the high school graduates of the class of 2010, including those involved in our own church activities, are faced with a new reality of life after high school.  No matter how recent, all those dances, classes, football games and other events are memories to be discussed at future reunions.Some graduates have made plans for marriage, the military, jobs, colleges or universities or just a summer vacation before their life begins another stage.

I’m, still waiting for that time when I could take a bike tour of Europe, but that dream was for when I was single. Parents, in an attempt to make their children more independent, have already planted seeds of responsibility from the first time the son or daughter took out the trash or mowed the lawn. Today the seeds have bloomed in the summer sun, and while individual family situations may differ, generally parents are encouraging a more physical distance between them and their children at some point in the near future. Some call this “leaving the nest.”

Even though our children may fly away to unknown parts of the earth, we are still parents who will love them and care for them regardless of their new situations.  God is our Father and he feels the same way. He loves us no matter what we do. The Lord has prepared for each of us to live and be an important part of the communities in which we serve.  When we fall, He will be there to bring us up to the light of life.

Our own children, who may think they know about the world based on their own experiences so far, will be in for a big experience economically and spiritually.  Those of us who have passed this stage still need to be aware of this change. As more adults re-enter in job market, the Class of 2010 have the job of finding a “good” job (or at least one to pay the rent- Dad’s new rules).  This will be a challenge, even as college plans loom in the distance. “How?” is the big question, followed by “who,””what,” “when,” and “where.”  “Why,” may seem redundant, but it still be asked.

The Lord is our security in all things in life, and while challenges are facing the youth of America after high school graduation, we need to encourage our children (and those in our ministry) to maintain this trust.  Jesus , who looks upon each of us as a shepherd cares for his flock, counts each of us so that none of us are lost to the world, no matter where we are.  Prayer is the key to this communication with God, and He will speak to each of us in a unique meaningful way.

Most of our first jobs  developed our sense or work ethic and character instead of making us rich ,and this probably for  the Class of 2010 unless someone sells his or her Internet website to the corporate world and becomes an instant millionaire.  The first jobs are merely stepping stones that will lead us to at least one career and probably several careers in a lifetime.  God has a plan for us.  We just have to listen.

Peace be you with always,

Rev. Paul Abernathy

“Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” -2 Peter 1:2

Contact Paul Abernathy at paulabernathy@gmail.com.

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