To the Class of 2008

To NMC Student Ministries’ Class of 2008

As you were in your 8^th grade year, I can remember multiple conversations with Pastor Jason concerning your class. “This group of students is strong,” he would tell me, “full of leaders from multiple schools and in multiple areas.”

He was very right, you know. As I take time to consider your class as a whole, you have been exceptional in your talents and your level of influence. This has happened both inside and outside the church.

In the church, Whether it’s in children’s ministry, first impressions, preteens, your own youth group, or praying with your Senior Pastors on Sunday morning, you have served more than any other class.

Outside the walls of this church, this class has been recognized as noted athletes, merit scholars, captains of marching bands, sports, and clubs… class presidents… you even have multiple homecoming kings and queens in your midst!

So, tons of service with lots of recognition and accolades. Well done, but I’m not that impressed. You see, all those actions really don’t mean a whole lot unless they are infused with the power, presence, and guidance of the Holy Spirit that can only be found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. You see, Seniors, it all goes back to a simple message I hope you have grasped through the years. This thing isn’t about a religion. It’s not about Religious Activities. It’s about Relationship. Unless you are connected in a healthy relationship with Christ, the rest is pointless. I’m excited to say this morning that I have seen many of you grasp hold of this truth and have lived it out over your High School years. With that, I’m impressed.

Class of 2008, as we consider the legacy you have left in Student Ministries, we also look ahead to what God has in store for you. There have been many individuals who have invested their lives in to you to see you to this point. As you go out into this world, we want to challenge you to take the instructions and blessings passed to you, and pass them on to others. Our gift to you this morning is a baton. On the baton, the inscription of Paul’s charge to Timothy, in II Timothy 2:2, “… Teach these great truths to trustworthy people who are able to Pass them on to others.”

As you move forward in that which God has in store for you I ask that you remember two things…

1.) That you are deeply loved by your church family
2.) That we believe in you and your potential to turn this world upside down for Jesus Christ!

You are loved,

Derry