High School Grad

Posted: June 16, 2014

This weekend Caronport High School celebrated the graduation of our grade 12 students. It was a great weekend indeed, as was the Briercrest College and Seminary graduation several weeks ago. Thanks Deb Ike, CHS teachers, Events team, and all who made this a wonderful weekend for students, family and friends. I noticed how quiet the campus became after the College and Seminary commencement services – but I expect that it will grow even quieter now that the High School is in summer recess. Now, I know that many of us have all kinds of work ahead of us (research, painting, writing, recruiting, renovating, etc.), but I fully expect, anticipate, even strongly encourage – each of us to take some time to refresh this summer. In the midst of a busy time Jesus taught and modelled:

“And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat” (Mark 6:31, ESV).

Yes, while it is quieter, we may be able to get to some projects that have been sitting on our desk for a while, but please take some focused time this summer to…

  • Rest and refresh! Try to get away for some time and don’t bring any work with you. Enjoy family. Sleep in. Read a novel. Build a sand castle. Replenish from energies expended. Many years ago I heard Rick Warren talk about replenishment and he offered: “Divert daily. Withdraw weekly. Abandon Annually.” Good counsel.
  • Recalibrate! Do take some time to assess your walk with the Lord. Read one of the Gospels in one sitting. Pray through some Psalms. “Examine yourself” as if your were about to take communion and determine what changes you need to make.
  • Plan (I couldn’t come up with an “r” word)! Take some time this summer to set some new goals for your personal and professional life. You may want to read some particular books or learn some new skills, but start planning. This gives us direction.

Wherever you are today – whether at work, or at rest, may you sense the joy of the Lord as our CHS valedictorian encouraged us with yesterday.

Partnering together,
Michael