Keep Focused!

Just wanted to publish this note of thanks to all parents and guardians of children as they prepare to begin another educational year. To parents: Thank you for all the time, energy, and love that has been poured into our children. To children: Remember, each of you has a fresh start. This is a new opportunity to do great things.

As a child, Jesus was found studying in the temple courts, trying to learn everything he could (Luke 2:41-52). Young people, follow Jesus’ example. This year, be determined to spend most of your time learning as much as you can and doing your very best.

Let’s pause and focus on those young people who will begin their first semester at college. This is a big adjustment. For young people, it is like a rite of passage. Many of you are moving from living at home with family to attending college and living on campus.

I remember when my parents drove me to Oberlin. I was happy as we toured the campus and picked up my dorm key entry pass and door key. I joyfully darted from one of the day’s family activities to another. I was happy, that is, until the day’s activities were over and my parents left me alone. Then I just cried and cried because they were gone. It's something about being there and realizing that I had to figure stuff out all by myself. Nothing was familiar. Will I find friends? Will I learn my way?

Then I took that first step outside of my room by myself, went down to eat a meal, and there met friends who would be a part of my campus family. Thus began my college adventures. I loved it and would not have traded the ups and downs, ins and outs of it for anything.

Enjoy college, but remember to focus on the right things for success. Include in your daily devotions Proverbs 2:6, because these words can keep you on track. Proverbs 2:6 reads, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." Begin each day with this scripture. At college, you are seeking wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. All three are possible if you allow God to be your guide. Since scripture tells us that God has the essential key wisdom and knowledge, why not apply this to your educational pursuits? Why not take God with you all the way!

Have an amazing school year!!