Christ’s Victory Shown through Graduation Testimonies

First impressions – this time of graduation and commencement. People say all sorts of things at commencement don’t they? Sometimes helpful, occasionally insightful, more often long, and a little boring. Imagine being at a commencement where speeches left you on the edge of your seat or were so wonderful they moved you to tears or anger. That’s my first impression of the commencement testimonies of Star of Hope program graduates.

When people arrive at Star of Hope, they are suffering from life’s many tragedies. Yes, many have made terrible decisions in their lives, but most, and I mean the overwhelming majority of the people we serve, are also the victims of terrible circumstances. The women did not choose abuse, and many of the men did not choose abandonment, yet many have suffered both. The terrible reality of a sinful world had its say over their happiness and joy.

But what you witness in graduation and commencement is the power of Christ to overcome the world. Christ declared, fear not; I have overcome the world. And in these men and women at commencement, you see that happening in front of your very eyes – Christ’s victory gives others victory. The world has had its say over the lives of the people we care for, but it is not the final word. Christ, is the final word.

Therefore, I want to extend an invitation to you to come visit our commencement ceremonies and see for yourself what your support, our team skills, and dedication do for the lives of the least and the lost. It will make your day!

Pictured above: Women and Family Development Center program graduates celebrate their accomplishments in Hope Chapel.