Today, education is viewed as a vital key to success in life, and knowledge has become every individual aim or concern. Each one of us is born in a different medium and of different social and cultural norms; however, most of us approve of education's positive effects on society. Therefore, why do we need education? And why do we think education is important?
The wise man, Solomon said, "There's a time for everything and a season," for each period in the life of everyone. Graduates, this is your season. Whatever level of achievement that you have made, don't stop, this is just a test of your pursuit for excellence. There is a world of opportunity beyond the doors of confinement, doubt, fear and pride for you who have prepared yourself mentally, psychologically, emotionally, academically, philosophically, and spiritually to name a few, along with character.
Graduate, as you reflect upon your accomplishments while focusing upon the next step of your journey for excellence, be sure to include the Savior, Jesus Christ, in your plans for the future. Some of you will be entering into Community colleges and Universities while others will be returning to grade school, middle and high school. Nevertheless you will still need Jesus' enabling grace to assist you in your efforts.
There are so many fields of discovery in the universe, such as medicine, technology, science, and energy that are lying dormant for researchers to tap into, regardless of race, color or creed. So as you consider your future, do not limit yourself to the ordinary. Reach beyond the norm and venture into fields of study that require scholarship beyond just being on the dean's list. The oil spilled in the gulf is just symptomatic of the need for better technology and skilled workers whose expertise could have already rectified the cause of the spillage that is wreaking havoc in the lives of families whose livelihoods have been impacted by the worst disaster in our nation.
The church, the voice of hope, proclaiming the message of Jesus Christ to a downtrodden world, still has the power to impact lives and bring about the kind of change in the lives of those who will hear and receive the message of hope. Never underestimate the power of the word friends. Graduates, whatever you do, do not forget that Christ Jesus still lives and His words are readily available, "Come unto me all you that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28-30); "I am the good shepherd, and I lay down my life for the sheep" (John 10:11).