Well, it is here. That event the young people have been dreading since
early summer has come. Back to school they must go and bring to an end the
carefree days of summer vacation. Much of the fun has been spoiled. That
fun has been replaced with lessons, assignments, homework, and tests. These
bring pressure, but they also increase knowledge and experience. These elements,
coupled with diligent effort by the student, will prepare that young person
for a responsible role in society that otherwise could not be.
We may not often think of it this way, but those who know Christ as Savior
from sin are in a life long school, the school of faith. Diligent study in
this school will increase our knowledge and widen our experience, although
this is not the school's purpose. Our teacher does not have the goal of training
us for good citizenship, though good students in this school make the best
citizens. This school seeks to conform us to the likeness of Jesus Christ.
In this school there is no summer vacation, spring break, or holiday time
off. Our homework consists of a biblical response to the experiences God
sends our way. Here the test comes first, and then the lesson. Graduation
does not come until, by death or by rapture, we are in the presence of our
blessed Lord.
The textbook, of course, is the unchangeable Word of God. The teaching
methods of our Lord are varied. The lessons are custom designed for each
student and are given at the very best time. The curriculum may include severe
difficulties as the Lord teaches us trust and patience. At times the lessons
involve broken health, illness, or disease as God prepares us to lean upon
His sufficient grace. Broken wealth can bring detachment from the world
and provide us with eternal goals. Some are asked to walk through life alone,
with only God as partner and companion. There could be none better. Friends
as well as enemies may oppose us as we make a stand for righteousness and
the Lord teaches us loyalty to Himself and His Word.
Very few young people will tell you that school is always fun. Some even question its value. Some quit! Being taught by the Lord in the school of faith is not always fun. There are times when it is very disheartening. However, it is always valuable. Lessons learned will follow us into eternity. Those who graduate with honors will hear our Savior say, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."