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This past weekend we had many graduations across Virginia.

It was a joyous time for the graduates. There were those bitter sweet moments, as the pandemic had an impact on their final school year. I heard many speeches about the obstacles they had to overcome and not making light of their situation, no doubt- it was a real experience. 

However, I still had a tug at my heart as I remembered, all those impacted by war. Some did not get to graduate at all and many young men never made it home.  Previous wars are being forgotten because the generation that remains from those wars are diminishing in number. They are not being talked about and so the future generations are not aware others had to lay their lives down so they may have the current freedoms of today. 

They get to receive an education because others went before them and made a way.  So, I pause as I cheer on our new graduates and am thankful for those who laid down their lives.  Again, no doubt the pandemic had an impact.

The Word makes it clear that when a person is promoted we are to rejoice with them.

“And if one … is honored, all … rejoice …” (1 Corinthians 12:26). 

As Christ followers, we should always be up for a celebration when others are promoted or like this week- graduated.   

It is true graduations are changing and evolving. The uncertainty of when and where they get to celebrate can be difficult to come to terms with. But graduation is a huge accomplishment that should be celebrated. As Christ followers, we can take the opportunity to encourage these graduates. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)  “Now, all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” (Ephesians 3:20) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

We are proud of our graduates and thank God they were able to complete their studies regardless of their circumstances.  May the Lord continue to bless you and to keep you.  This week let us remember to encourage a graduate as God desires for us to rejoice when a person is promoted.

Yvette Perrin is a columnist for The Charlotte Gazette. She can be reached at theword2yvette@gmail.com.