Congratulations... But Don't Forget

Today we say congratulations to our graduates. Everyone is so proud of you. There is a lot that has gone into getting you here. Your parents, your grandparents, your friends and your church family have joyfully invested in your life. And now, as you continue the next chapter in your life’s journey, never forget your roots—where you came from, who you are, and whose you are.

As I thought about your journey, I came across an article from CBC News by Christopher Brito on a young woman named Jessica Rocha. When Jessica Rocha set out to celebrate her graduation from the University of California San Diego, she took a photo. And like many Instagram influencers often do, Rocha was in a field. But instead of being in a cute outfit with stylish accessories, Rocha was in her graduation gown. And her parents were on hand for the occasion.

Central to the importance of the shot was its location, and the way that it demonstrated her family heritage. In the photo, Rocha and her parents stood in the same fields where all three of them had toiled as migrant workers, planting and harvesting, for years and years. According to Rocha, after her parents emigrated to the US from Mexico they required her to work in the fields as a way to remind her about the value of getting an education. During her high school years, she often worked the overnight shift with her father. They would plant strawberries late through the evening and into the morning. Rocha barely got enough sleep to take the bus to school in the morning.

Rocha took the photo to honor her parents for the way they sacrificed so that she could pursue her education. She said, “Nobody thinks about nor sees what happens behind a vegetable you grab at the grocery store. But behind it is someone who breaks their backs every day working in the fields."

Even after she made it into college, Rocha still worked the fields on weekends and during school breaks. She credited her parents for the motivation. “Many times I wanted to give up, but my parents and their pieces of advice and support were the reason I kept going. If it wasn't for how my parents raised me, I don't know who I would be today."

Like Jessica Rocha, let me encourage you to remember how you got here. Remember the sacrifices that your parents have made and the help, encouragement, and counsel they and others have provided. But let this reminder not just be a temporary memory. Let it go with you all along your life journey. Your roots will keep you grounded, and they’ll sustain you when the difficulties and storms arise. And most of all remember your God and Savior! He’s the one who sacrificed all for your soul.

If you will receive it, let me give you some tips for the days ahead:

1. Stay Close to God… there will be many distractions ahead that the enemy will use to try and divide your heart from the things that count forever.

2. Stay Connected to Family… these are the people that will always be there for you.

3. Stay Committed to Church… with no one pushing, it is easy to forsake regular worship. You will need this more than you may realize right now.

And remember, God is always trying to take you someplace new. I love being your Pastor!

For God’s Glory Alone,

Pastor Ray

Image credit: Unsplash