Graduation

Sunday night’s graduation was spiritually uplifting. There was no need for the valedictorian to be concerned about speaking Jesus’ name nor invoking His deity in prayer. There were no members of other religions or atheists standing by to deny her a constitutional right to practice her religion, even in a public place.
She was afforded an opportunity to explain her salvation experience. In fact she was encouraged to do so, and her audience paid heed in quiet reflection as she spoke of the years spent reaching her decision.
Most likely there were other such graduation services across our country – my granddaughter had a similar one several years ago. The major difference here was that this graduate was the single graduate of home schooling, and my granddaughter was the single stuent of a Christian school’s senior class.
Both young ladies received high scholastic grades through state accredited programs. I am grateful for having known both of them as they progressed through years of study and appreciation of the knowledge gained.
They are set apart from a majority of students today: But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him. (Psalms 4:3 KJV)
There are times when our school systems remind me of the old Soviet Union’s with their removal of Christianity from all activities. Attendees need to remember their constitutional rights to religion not infringed by the government. Teachers and administrators (and there appear to be more and more of the latter) may not impose a religious belief – but they may not impose non-belief, either. They are legally compelled to allow students expression of their religious beliefs.
This does mean a Muslim student is to be allowed time for scheduled prayers, and a Christian student may speak Jesus’ name in public prayer – both without recrimination, but probably not without a lawsuit or two attempting to provide freedom from religion, not of religion.
These are only two of many young people who have chosen He Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2:14 KJV)
And have dedicated their lives zealously to those good works. Thank God for those teachers dedicated to prepare their students for that choice. They have followed that which Paul chose for Timothy:
These things command and teach. (1 Timothy 4:11 KJV)