4. A Flashlight: God’s Presence
(Hold up a flashlight or lantern.) Dark days will occur. Seasons of doubt and loneliness. Nights when you’re far from home and wonder if anyone sees you. But God’s presence is your light. Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you.”
Even when you feel alone, God is with you. Even in the darkest dorm room, the most overwhelming lecture hall, or the loneliest job, God’s light is still shining. Turn it on.
5. A Journal: Your Story
(Pull out a blank journal.) This represents your ongoing story with God. You’ve already written chapters in this church, with this youth group, with your family. But the story isn’t over. It’s just beginning! Revelation 12:11 says, “They triumphed… by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.”
God wants to use your story to bless others. So write it. Live it. Share it. Every victory, every question, every answered prayer is part of the testimony that God is crafting through your life.
Pack Light, Walk Boldly
Now this backpack isn’t light, because life isn’t always light. But you don’t carry it alone. Jesus says in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Jesus walks with you. He’s your travel companion, your strength, your peace, your Savior.
As you graduate, take this backpack and keep it stocked. Don’t let it gather dust. Use what’s inside. Open your map. Follow your compass. Use grace when you fall. Turn on the light in the dark. Keep writing your story.
You are ready. Not because you’ve mastered everything but because Jesus, the One who called you, is faithful. Now we as your church family commission you to go with purpose. Go with Jesus. Go and shine!
