The journey continues...

Today is a day of celebration. All the graduation parties have been attended, all the food eaten (Andrew Hinson wins the party food award), and everyone has finally graduated. It's bitter sweet really. 

Last night my small group (all seniors) celebrated together with a joint party at the church. Tons of people came by to share, celebrate, and tell them how much they are loved. There were pictures of the journey to this point scattered all over the place and a slide show on all the tvs. Favorite songs were pumping out of the sound system, and great friends, coaches and teachers were coming and going all night. It was really cool. 

However, my favorite part was a small, quiet time of sharing together in the prayer chapel after everyone else had gone. We talked about taking the things we have learned from one another with us as we all begin new journeys. We looked at Matthew Chapter 13 where Jesus shares a turning point with His friends in the upper room. After an intimate time Jesus tells his disciples that he has shown them things so they will know how to act in service to each other. Then he basically says "So do it!" 

I hope over the last three years I have shown my small group friends a good way to serve, walk, and experience life together that they can take with them in to this next journey. I also hope they continue to serve the new people they meet like I have seen them serve each other and like Jesus teaches us to serve.