Last night, our daughter Alyssa Rachel walked across the stage to receive her diploma for high school graduation, and she also is receiving her diploma for graduating with her AA degree from a local community college. The dual enrollment program offered in many parts of the country fits Alyssa perfectly so she could “attend” (online) classes at the community college and also receive high school credit for those courses, thereby satisfying both requirements.
On top of that, we are so proud of her as she is an extremely conscientious student, hard-working and intelligent, and received a 4.0 GPA with awards as a top scholar. It wasn’t that long ago, as she began high school, that Holly and I were concerned if she would even be able to make it through high school due to her health struggles. Rather, as she recently memorized from James, “Blessed is the man (or woman) who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12) Remaining steadfast under Alyssa’s health struggles has caused her to stand the test, and while her “crown of life” is still awaiting, last night she received a different type of award.
At the same time, Alyssa hates lots of attention and accolades, so in this post I must turn the corner to share that last Sunday was a very special day for her and mama Holly as they were both asked to pray in our church for the unborn on “Sanctity of Life” Sunday. The plight of the unborn weighs so heavily on Alyssa’s and Holly’s hearts, and the issue frequently pops up in their prayers. I’m thankful for two women in our home who have such a heart for the things the burden the heart of God.
I’m thankful that Alyssa demonstrates the type of selfless character and ministry mindset that is eager to reach out and help those less fortunate than her, striving to share the heart and mind of Christ and bring others along with her. She is actively engaged in helping lead worship for her youth group, leading a young women’s Bible study, discipling several young women, and will soon leave to help serve at a camp for handicapped children. At the party we had for her last Sunday, several people shared how their lives had been impacted by Alyssa, being encouraged by how she follows the Lord even through the challenges of life. We are thankful that God is choosing to heal her and strengthen her body these days, but even if he does not, yet Alyssa is committed to Him (Job 13:15, Daniel 3:17-18).
Although Alyssa is fairly uncertain of her next steps, she knows the One Who has all wisdom and understanding, and trusts Him with all her heart. At this point, she is planning on working in the fall, taking a mission trip, maybe an online class or two, and saving up to head to a Christian college in January. We love you, Alyssa!
