Seminary Graduation: "... Not my will, but Thine, be done."

It’s graduation time! Many of the schools over here in the Philippines are already finishing the school year and beginning their summer vacations.:-) Over this past weekend, we attended a graduation ceremony for those graduating from our Mountain View Baptist Bible Seminary (MVBBS) program. (This week and next week we will also attend the graduations of our Church Academy for those in the kindergarten and highschool departments.)

The guest speaker, a former MVBBS graduate, delivered an encouraging yet challenging charge. He encouraged the graduates (and everyone listening) to maintain their decisions for the Lord as he spoke from the verse in I Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”

Here are 4 of the graduates. (They are watching the 5th graduate walk down the aisle.):-)

This year, we enjoyed watching five young men graduate and receive their seminary diplomas. Their perseverance, hard work, and diligent studies had paid off. It was encouraging to hear their testimonies and to see their desire to serve the Lord and follow His will for their lives. Not only did they each give God the glory for their achievements, but they also encouraged the remaining seminary students to press on during challenging times, to continue in their studies, and to remain faithful in serving the Lord.


Many of the students who attend our church’s 3-year seminary program come from distant provinces here in the Philippines. With that being the case, we were sad to say goodbye to those going back home for their summer vacation.:-( Nevertheless, we anticipate seeing everyone again when they return in July for the next semester.:-) It has been a joy getting to know many of these students.


While the men study theology, the ladies in seminary learn Christian education as well as several other Biblical doctrines and principles. :-)


Together, the graduates sang a special number that reflected this year’s graduation theme: “…Not my will, but Thine, be done.” (from Luke 22:42) We were challenged by the words of their song and wanted to end by sharing with you a portion of the lyrics:

“Lord Jesus, I surrender, my will shall be Thine own;
I lay aside ambition, and bow before Thy throne.
I’ll give myself for others, as Thou didst die for me.
Lord, send me forth with power, to live my life for Thee.

Chorus:
Not my will but Thine, Lord.
Lead me to Calvary.
Make my life a living sacrifice,
Crucified for Thee.”