University of Mobile (UM) President Timothy L. Smith challenged graduates to be open to fulfilling the unexpected opportunities that God will place in their lives.
“While the view outside may look very clear today and you may have your life planned based on your equipping from your academic preparation, I ask that you keep your eyes open for the unexpectedness that will come from Him,” Smith said during fall commencement ceremonies Dec. 16 at Redemption Church, Saraland.
UM awarded 67 diplomas at its first fall semester graduation in 18 years.
The university has held fall semester graduation only three years previously: in 1996, 1997 and 1998. All other years, students who completed their requirements for graduation at the end of fall semester would participate in graduation ceremonies held the following May.
Smith told the biblical story of the birth of Christ during his commencement address, highlighting the roles of the innkeeper who turned Mary and Joseph away and the shepherds who responded.
“Some recognized what was happening while others missed Him and the picture that God was creating before the very eyes of man,” Smith said.
“At the end of this commencement, you will walk out those glass doors and you will begin to navigate the world in accordance to the shepherd or the innkeeper. In other words, you will begin to maneuver through life with a focus on this world as an innkeeper, or a focus on Christ as a Shepherd in allowing Him to direct you in this world,” Smith said.
“It is my prayer and encouragement that you choose to … focus on Christ in allowing Him to direct your world instead of you taking on the world yourself. I can promise you that if you would take this path, you will not have to worry about the rules of life because He will be the guide of your heart and mind that will lead to actions directed by Him,” Smith said. “And as this occurs, expect the unexpected.” (UM)
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