To the Class of 2026

I was not the valedictorian of my high school graduating class. When I received my diploma 50 years ago, I was an average student with perfect attendance - I knew how to show up.

You might wonder what a 1976 Tate graduate could have in common with you. Well, once upon a time, I was you; anticipating life and the freedom of adulthood.

In school, I was assigned books to help me understand the world, prepare for my future, and dream big.

While those books were helpful, there is one I was never required to read: the Word of God. Yet, this book has impacted my life more than any other.

You might be thinking. A Jesus girl wants to tell me about my future? I’m out.

Please, stay with me.

By the world’s standards, you have already been tempted to compromise your morals in the name of acceptance, love or success. But, your future is too important to trade for the world’s approval.

The literature books we studied in school were rich and meaningful, but their impact often depended on how we interpreted them.

The Bible is different.

From the beginning to forever, it is an incredible story about humanity’s rescue; however, the natural man can’t match its wisdom and timeless truths - which do not change with culture.

I know that you are already searching for love. At your age, I was eager to find it, too.

Did you know the Bible’s author is God? In many ways, His Word is a letter to you that expresses a pure love that never fails. You’re going to need that kind of love when people disappoint you, when the door to a job you want closes, and when life isn’t turning out the way you had hoped.

What you’re craving is a relationship with Jesus, God’s Son - who sacrificed His life as payment for the sinful things man has done and will do. He will love you when you are unlovable, give grace you haven’t earned, and offer undeserved mercy.

There will be successes and failures in your future, and you will need something to guide you. The Bible is that guide. It doesn’t offer opinions. Its truths can shape you - practically and in faith.

That’s why these words are important: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

At some point, you may choose to follow someone down a path that leads straight to a dead end of emotional and/or financial devastation. After that, you trust sparingly.

But you can trust God - He has only your best interests at heart.

Let Him guide you. Don’t be afraid to follow where He leads.

When everything around you feels uncertain, you need something that is stable.

The Word of God becomes that foundation - the unshakeable place where you can stand when all else is shifting.

So, expect challenges. Anticipate victories. Plan for setbacks. But don’t face them without direction.

Resist the urge to run after what is short-lived or false by tethering yourself to God and His Word.

God has a purpose for your life. Do your part while seeking His direction and only pursue what is lasting and true. When you’re following His plan, He can remove roadblocks and open doors you never could.

Make room for Him. Set aside time each day to read the Bible, reflect, ask questions and grow. Just like you prepared for tests in school, prepare your heart for life by applying His truth daily.

And yes, you will fail sometimes.

But failing isn’t the end. It is the beginning of new growth. God uses failure to teach, humble and draw you closer to Him.

So, when you fail, forgive yourself. God forgives as far as the east is from the west. He gives second chances - specific to you and your circumstances. His grace is enough to cover any mess.

Will there be consequences? You bet. But even then, God is gracious.

And talk to Him.

Prayer is how you stay connected to the One who created you.

A real, raw and righteous prayer can yield powerful results. Consistent conversations with God will allow Him to meet with you in your best and worst times. If you’re to be an overcomer, prayer is a must.

But take time to listen, too. His voice is often quiet, and brings peace, not confusion.

Over time, something inside you will change. God-centered living will replace your self-centered thinking. You’ll be strong where you once were weak. And if you’re struggling to pray, you’ll automatically speak scripture back to the One who wrote it, knowing God’s Word never falls on deaf ears or returns void.

When you question your worth - and you will - it is important to remember this:

You are seen, loved and valued.

When you place your faith in Jesus, you are His workmanship - His masterpiece.

You always have a seat at His table. You belong.

Charles H. Spurgeon said, “Visit many good books but live in the Bible.”

That is my hope for you.

That you won’t just read it - but that you will come to know its author personally.

Because it’s more than a book of words - it is the Book of Life, waiting for you to open it.