It’s graduation season. Except this year looks a bit different than season’s past. Even so, my son was very excited to try on his cap and gown after we made our way through the school car line to pick it up having to adhere to social distancing recommendations. Both of us have worked hard to make this happen. I have advocated tirelessly for services and supports for his success. It’s difficult to tell how much George understands the consequences of graduating from high school. I’m sure he senses a change. I proudly posted this picture on Facebook and I was struck by a comment that was made. A friend stated that the cap and gown “fit him well”. I thought about that comment rolling it over in my mind for several days considering all aspects and perspectives of it. Physically the cap and gown absolutely fit him well. But, beyond the outward appearance, beneath the fabric, and below the cap is where the true fit can be found. George was molded and fitted for Christ long before his birth. He was created with and for a purpose. Down syndrome didn’t change that.
A quote by J.C. Ryle brings to mind the extent of what clothing can truly represent. “Never is a man….rightly clothed till he puts on the Lord Jesus Christ”. Romans 13:14 states to “clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ.” While caps and gowns represent the completion of 12 years of schoolwork and preparation for the future, “having on” the Lord Jesus Christ carries with it much further reaching ramifications extending to eternity. For George, graduation can be seen as a steppingstone on his ongoing gospel-sharing journey.
None of us can predict how God will use us to impact others. George’s path has guided him to surprising places and offered unanticipated opportunities. He’s carried Jesus to AA meetings where he had been invited to offer a closing prayer. A prayer that influenced many men on their journey of recovery. Being clothed in Christ eliminates judgement. It’s filtered out leaving acceptance and love.
Watching George walk across the stage in his cap and gown will most certainly bring a sense of pride to me. But knowing that he is clothed in Christ fills me with a sense of awe.
It fits him well
