Kitty Williams, Director of Music Ministries
On a local newscast last night, the anchor person said:
“It’s finally here! The season of graduations!”
I thought back on my graduations, my husband’s, my children’s and my mom’s graduations.
For our family, each graduation was a celebration of accomplishments with great anticipation and hopes yet to come.
Then I thought of all the students who have come through our First United Methodist Garland children’s and youth programs.
I am thankful for the privilege to work with so many wonderful students who have gone on to become doctors, teachers, engineers, lawyers, analysts, philanthropists, musicians and much more.
Each year, if seniors have been active throughout their high school years, I allow them to choose the choir tour destinations, Dessert Show themes, and most importantly, our theme verse or quote for the year.
I am so thankful for seniors who come to their year with anticipation and willingness to take leadership.
The younger youth appreciate when the older youth lovingly include them.
Together, we all grow in faith.
Madeline Watkins and Liberty Cowan are outstanding seniors. They take initiative, showing creativity and ingenuity.
Although Pure Joy! Youth Choir has been small this year, they are one of the most talented groups around!
I credit Madeline and Liberty for not only singing in tune, but also keeping our group in harmonious unity!
This year, they chose this quote as our theme:
“God can give you peace for the past, purpose for the present and hope for the future.”
There are many verses that support this quote.
Because Ascension Sunday is in one week, the passage brought to this reflection is John 14:25-27.
Before Jesus ascends, he assures his followers:
“I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”
Prayer:
Loving God, life keeps changing and sometimes that causes anxiety.
Thank you for the calm assurance that your peace can be in us.
Without fear, help us to bring peace and assurance to those around us.
First Reflections 