Baccalaureate Service 2010

I was given the great privilege to speak at the baccalaureate service held by the graduating class of 2010 at the Ventura High School on Sunday evening May 9th.

This was very special to me as this is the class that Susan has participated with in her high school years. Although home-schooled, Susan participated in athletics, band, vocal and drama. I felt very honored when I was asked by a couple of students to speak, to bring a challenge from the Word of God.

I was truly impressed with the students as a few of them shares their favorite Bible verses and what those verses meant to them. These young people were nailing it the application of these verses to their lives. Bottom line ... that ability doesn't happen be accident! Kudos to the parents and Pastors, well done!

I spoke on 2 Timothy 1:3-7 - "I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

My goal was to key in on the godly heritage that we receive from our parents and families but there comes a point in life when young people MUST step up and take ownership of their relationship with Jesus Christ. God does not have any grandchildren and every person must make a personal decision about who Jesus Christ claimed to be in the Word of God. Based on the claims of Jesus in the Gospels, he is either a liar, lunatic or exactly who He claimed to be ... LORD! The very creator God, Savior of those who will receive His free gift of salvation. The challenge was well received and I trust God to bless the sharing of His Word.

As always it is a privilege to be used of God to encourage other in their faith. As Paul said in 1 Timothy 1:12 - "I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service."

I Remain,
Pastor Steve