Two weeks ago, we celebrated the milestone of graduation at our local Christian university. It brought back joyful memories of sitting in the same bleachers to applaud our son’s graduation day a few years back.

This time, we marked the milestone for several international students who opened their hearts over the last four years and invited us in.

Watching them cross the stage and receive their well-earned rewards—and celebrating their achievements with their moms and dads from around the world—was unforgettable.

In a few short days, our daughter graduates from high school. Over the past four years she’s discovered she’s an artist. An encourager. A true follower of Christ. She’s put stamps in her passport and put her stamp on our lives. She challenges us to examine our point of view, care more deeply, and step outside our comfortable boundaries.

As our daughter prepares for the next chapter of college and community, we hold her loosely. God has her and he’s taking her exactly where she should go.

We’re inspired as we stand back and look at these young people.

Did we have the same courage at their age, to leave all that’s familiar to run hard after Jesus?

Was our highest aim to make the world a better place by infusing our goals and our work with God’s love?

Did insecurities and fears keep us treading safe, predictable paths for our feet?

Each one of our young friends and our daughter give glory to God and make us do the same.

Today, we pray.

The best and most powerful support we can give is calling on God to keep them in his hands.

Pray along with us as you celebrate and hold great hope for the graduate who holds your heart today.

Lord, as we celebrate the once-in-a-lifetime milestone of graduation, I praise you for bringing my child so far. Your creative plan is unfolding as they discover unique talents, passions, and dreams for tomorrow.

Thank you for the lavish love you poured into my child’s life. You gave strength to learn. By your wisdom, you provided insight in times of confusion. In dark moments you offered hope when it felt too hard to keep going. You wrapped my child in comfort during days of loneliness and disappointment. You gave generous rewards for hard work and perseverance. Through every day of schooling and growing, you were faithful.

As my child looks forward to next steps, remind them you’re a promise-keeping God. You never leave or forget the ones you love. You offer wisdom for the asking. Your Word holds encouragement and rock-solid truth that never fails. You’re an ever-present help in times of trouble. In Christ, you create a spiritual family so “home” can be found wherever they go. You offer deep, sustaining joy that can survive the darkest hours. In Jesus, the future is bright.

Bless my child with faith that never fades. Guide each step as you author a remarkable life story. As this priceless young person commits their way to you, make yourself known as the one true King, Father, and closest Friend. Amen.

My son [and daughter], do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,
for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you peace and prosperity.

Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.

(Proverbs 3:1-6)

To continue praying for your son or daughter beyond the milestone of graduation: