Commencement refers to the time when something begins. Thus, every spring colleges and high schools hand out degrees and diplomas for completing a required set of courses. After these ceremonies end, its time for individuals to begin their next phase in life. Subsequently, as my oldest son graduates today its time for James to prepare himself for Liberty University and possibly a spot as a pole vaulter at the Division 1 level.
When Jesus was twelve years old, they went up to the festival, according to the custom, Luke 2:42.
One of the 4 gospels suggests Jesus celebrated a bar-mitzvah after becoming a teenager. The Jewish faith continues this tradition today, giving young men and women an opportunity to publicly share what they have learned about the Torah. Thus, Jesus was able to teach about the Word of God at the synagogue for the first time in Luke 2. However, Jesus waited 17 more years before beginning his three year ministry on earth.
When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me, 1 Corinthians 13:11.
Perhaps, the apostle Paul was reflecting upon his own bar-mitzvah in the passage above. Regardless of the context, modern churches offer those who seek the Lord a chance to complete their confirmation. Essentially, this year long process or longer in some denominations, encourages boys and girls to take ownership of their faith. At the end of this process, like graduation, its time keep in step with the Holy Spirit, Galatians 5:25. Whether someone is going off to college, participating in a mission trip or starting a new career, the time has arrived to graduate on to the next phase in life.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 