The Milestone originated with the ancient Romans. They were obelisks or stones placed in intervals on roads marking the distance to or from a place, showing how far people had gone on their journey. Over the years it has developed a secondary meaning defined as, “An action or event marking a significant change or stage in development; the start of a new chapter.” 

As we turn the page from April to May, many families are getting ready to experience some milestone moments. Some have a child “graduating” preschool, with kindergarten in the near future. Some are finishing up elementary school or middle school or junior high, ready for another step in the maturing process. The most significant milestone moments are happening for those who have someone in their life graduating high school or college, for both of these come with significant changes ahead. For the high school senior, it’s the beginning of adulthood, independence, and the exciting adventure of college or entering the workforce. For the high school senior parent, it’s a sense of accomplishment in getting them to this place in their lives mixed with a sadness that with a new chapter comes the loss of what was. For the college graduate, it’s the joy of no more school, the anticipation of making money, and the anxiety around how to “adult” in the real world. For the college parent, it’s relief that they’re (hopefully) off the payroll tempered by a realization that parenting doesn’t stop at 18 or 22, it just gets more complicated. 

In these milestone moments, a couple of Scriptures are helpful both for the graduate and the parent (and probably all of us!). For the graduate, Paul’s words to the Colossians can be a helpful reminder: 

“And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” (2:6-7) 

Also comforting is God’s word to Joshua: 

“This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." (1:9) 

For the parents, I know I’ve leaned on these two a lot, first from Philippians and then from 1 Peter: 

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (4:6-7) 

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (5:7) 

If you are one who is approaching a major milestone this month, please know that I am praying for you. If you are not personally, but know someone who is, I invite you to join me in these prayers. We’ll be celebrating our seniors this Sunday, lifting them up in prayer during worship and then having a Youth Senior Dinner that evening. Let’s celebrate this milestone together!