What Else Can a Parent Ask For

Since our two sons were little, we've stressed the importance of going to college and earning a bachelor's degree. Even more, we have stressed the need to go ahead and work towards earning a master's degree, since competition in the job market seems to increase every day. Now, our oldest is in his last semester of high school and college life is looming just six months away. We couldn't believe it when the other night we had to put down the deposit for his dorm! Truly, the last 18 years have flown by, and we're definitely full of mixed emotions as we look into the future. But like the civil rights leader Ralph Abernathy said, "I don't know what the future holds, but I know Who holds the future."

Because of the above and because we know how critical walking with God is, especially in the college environment, two of our main requirements to consider in choosing a university have been: (1) a strong Bible-believing Christian church to be engaged with in worship, discipleship and service, and (2) a strong BSM (Baptist Student Ministry). We realize that if our sons earn college degrees and get great jobs as a result, but lose their faith, stop serving Christ and forget what life is all about, they would have failed. Why? Because life is not just about us.

So as you make a final decision about where your son or daughter will go to college, or as you make a decision for yourself (whatever the case may be), choose a school where you/your child will have an opportunity to grow, not just as a professional, but also as a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. You or your children may want to become more independent, but never from God. "Apart from me," Jesus said, "You can do nothing" (John 15:5c).

After careful consideration, our son did not choose a Baptist school to go to, but we're OK with that. Program of study and proximity to our house were also important requirements, of course. But, there are strong Texas Baptist churches in town, and of course, a very strong BSM. In fact, on Saturday February 27, which happens to be our son's 18th birthday, Texas Baptists dedicated a new $2 million BSM building at our son's new campus! What a great investment in the kingdom of God! May he, through his involvement in BSM and a local church, grow in his relationship with Christ, experience meaningful fellowship with other believers and be equipped to live for Him and share his faith wherever he goes! What else can a parent ask for?