My "Charge" to Katherine

A few people had asked for a copy of what I said to Katherine at her graduation party two weeks ago. She said that I could post it here:

In the book of 1 Chronicles, when Solomon was about to step out on his own, David gave him some final instructions. He gave Solomon a charge that I think is appropriate for today. He said to his son, “… learn to know the God of your ancestors intimately. Worship and serve him with your whole heart and a willing mind. For the Lord sees every heart and knows every plan and thought. If you seek him, you will find him.” (1Chronicles 28:9)

Katherine, you are an amazing daughter and a wonderful young woman. I am proud of you and I am confident in you. I have loved you for over 18 years now, and i love the adventure that it is being your father. I appreciate your passion, your vitality and your “spiciness.” Your love of the Lord, your family, your friends is evident. Your are beautiful, funny, intelligence and wise beyond your years.

Back in the day I prayed for a long time that you would entrust yourself to the Lord some day, and when you decided for yourself to follow Jesus it was overwhelming and joyful. Since that time I have prayed that you would commit yourself totally to God, remain faithful to Him, and be willing to be used by Him in whatever way he sees fit. I have seen evidence of these prayers being answered for quite a while.

You and your friends have repeatedly called your mom and I “the strictest parents we know.” You no longer have to be worried about that. You have handled your growing freedom better than many others your age, but you are entering an critical chapter in your life. The choices you make as you begin your adulthood are immensely important.

I will continue to pray.

Similar to David’s charge to his son Solomon, there were a few times that Jesus gave a charge to his disciples. Here is one of them, found in John chapter 15

What he said to them is very directly applicable to you. He said, “You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. Yes, I am the vine: you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:3-5)

I am sad that we will not be nearer to you during this time in your life.
But I am glad that you have the support of your church, family and friends here.
Use that support. You will have our help also, but make sure you stay connected to the people here who love the Lord with their whole heart.
Hold on to the Lord when you are doing well and when you are struggling.
When you mess up, keep turning to him.
Abide in him, keep looking to him. Stay faithful to him.

Wherever you live, wherever you go to school, wherever you work, stay connected to the vine and I promise you, you will thrive.