Always Forward!

Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you! Proverbs 4:25

As impossible as it is to believe, graduation is upon us! Students in high schools, colleges, and many others receiving higher degrees are finishing up their respective studies and getting ready to pursue the next step in their lives. Many of us are wondering, “Where did the years go?” The graduates are probably asking, “Why did it take so long?”

No matter the person or the situation, we are all faced with the next step in our lives whether it be college, career, advancement, or whatever! I love the French phrase “Tojours Avant” which when translated means Always Forward. In researching this phrase, I have learned that “Tojours Avant” is used in Army drills, and it is the equivalent of a cadet or officer saying, “Forward March.”

We are all moving forward whether we like it or not, and each move forward involves taking steps. The saying, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” is one on which we can all agree. The Bible has many examples of those who always stepped forward, but the one I like the best is Peter.

The Gospel of Matthew tells us that after the feeding of the five thousand, Jesus sent the disciples off in a small boat to cross over to the other side while he dismissed the crowd. Then, Jesus went up on a hill to be alone and pray. The small boat was far out to sea when the wind came up against it, and the waves battered it. It was early in the morning when Jesus came toward the disciples in the small boat walking on the water. The Bible says the disciples were extremely frightened thinking Jesus was a ghost. Peter said, “Jesus if it is really you, call me to come to you on the water.” Jesus did and Peter jumped out of the boat and began walking on the water. He was doing fine until he looked down at the churning water, lost his nerve, and begin to sink. Jesus held out a hand to him, pulled him up, and chastised Peter for being faint of heart. It was at this moment when Peter said, “You are surely the Son of God.” Matthew 14: 22-33

It is fair to say that Peter made a few mistakes before he moved forward. First, he doubted that it could be Jesus walking on the water. Even after he had seen the miracles Jesus had performed, he let doubt creep in. Next, he got anxious about the water and the fear of drowning, and he let worry take over. Finally, Peter doubted himself. Even though he knew that God was with him, even though Jesus had faith in him, he doubted that he could make it to the end.

The important part here is that Peter took that step and from that time on, he was always moving forward for Christ. But, how do we remember to move forward when so many things cloud our judgment? The first piece of advice is not to let our thoughts determine our character. In other words, before we entertain a thought of doing or thinking something that is not in line with our Christian lifestyle, stop it then and move forward.

Secondly, be sure the people with whom we associate and look upon as role models are people of principle and integrity. My family always said, “Remember where you came from!” Next, stay confident that the plan God has for us will come to pass. Finally, remain steadfast in what we know is right,and don’t get side tracked. The old saying is true, “If we don’t stand for something, we will fall for anything.”

The graduating class of 2023 is special to us for many reasons. First, they are a great group of young men and women who have grown up in the church. We have been there for most of their baptisms, confirmations, and now graduation, and we have a special bond with them. They are steadfast and loyal, kind and supportive, and true to their faith.

This is a special year for our family as we celebrate our grandson Drew’s graduation with him. We are in the group that wonders “Where did the years go?” Randy and I are so proud of his accomplishments, his abilities, his loyalty, his love of others, his sense of humor, his dedication, and his faith. We are excited to watch as he moves always forward.

My prayer for this class is that they would walk with God for in the most difficult times and the best of times, He is always with you. He will take care of you! It is comforting to know that it’s not our walk, but God’s instead. Toujours Avant! Go always forward!

Congratulations class of 2023! We love you, Drew!