I’m in Louisville for graduation for my doctorate.  This morning I picked up my “apparel” for the ceremony, which is tomorrow.  The “hood” for doctoral grads is pretty regal.  Part of me is glad for that, part of me thinks it ought to be some sackcloth / ash blend.  When I heard of getting “hooded” my first thought entailed a black van speeding to a street corner, slamming on the brakes, and putting a black hood over some person of political interest (too much “24”).

Seriously, this is actually pretty exciting.  I’ve been a bit surprised how much I’ve looked forward to this.  I’m the guy that plays things down probably too much.  The last time I felt this “surprise” feeling of anticipation was when I first stepped into Wrigley stadium for a Cub’s game — NOT just another ballpark.  Certainly this is much more meaningful.  I love that my kids are here, they’ve given up quite a bit in the last (almost) five years.

It’s caused me to reflect a bit on what all has gone on in our lives in that time.  Here’s just a glimpse… 2 additional children, 2 miscarriages, 2 family deaths, move to new ministry, move into new home, 2 additional pets (the girls wanted to make sure that was in there), a marathon, and many other course-of-life events.  I don’t record this for you to think really anything in particular at all.  Simply, for me, it is good record such events because I need to see God’s hand in the events He has providentially caused / allowed to show His faithfulness and discipline me as a son.

Also, I hope that you’ll take the time, especially at year’s end, to reflect on the events of your life over a certain amount of time.  Consider the goodness of the Lord.  See His hand at work.  Forget not all His benefits.  Remember that had someone laid out for you all that was to come over that period that you would have been overwhelmed.  Instead, you can understand, like Paul, that God’s grace is sufficient.

I do want to say “thank you” to UBC for all of your support and patience during this period.  While I can’t guarantee I’m done with formal education, I can say that whatever is done in my training is done for you…

For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 4:15