FTTL Graduation (and all the other days)

We’re reaching the end of the academic year now, and although students still have exams and schools are in session for a few more weeks, the Full-Time Training in London (FTTL) term has drawn to a close. Today was the graduation of five trainees who consecrated the past two years to the Lord to be trained in matters of Bible truth and church service. Their presentation today was a real testimony of their experience and enjoyment of the Lord during their time in the training.

One shared that she had realised that God’s intention for her was not merely to be a “good doctor”, but that the best way she could help people was to give them that which is really life. Another said that he used to wave from the opposite side of the street to his gospel partner, but had learnt not to be so individualistic; and another shared that she had learnt that is not right or wrong that matters, but life and peace. I was very much encouraged by one sister’s earnest pursuit of the Lord every morning, not letting the Lord go until He had revived her, and very much touched by another sister sharing her experience of facing a difficult situation, and learning to be one with the Lord in all her decision-making.

But most of all I enjoyed seeing their smiling, joyful faces, as they exercised their spirit and spoke forth this wonderful Christ whom they breathe, drink and eat. This is the way to enjoy Christ as life abundantly!

My day was rounded up by playing guitar and singing in the garden with my gospel partner and roommate from back when we were in the training. We sang the following hymn, which we would both say is a favourite, and which I think is very apt for these five graduates as they look to the Lord for their future. I hope that you also enjoy singing it 🙂

1. I take Thy promise, Lord, in all its length,
And breadth and fulness, as my daily strength;
Into life’s future fearless I may gaze,
For, Savior, Thou art with me all the days.

2. Days may be coming fraught with loss and change,
New scenes surround my life and fancies strange;
I thank Thee that no day can ever break,
Savior, when Thou wilt leave me or forsake.

3. There may be days of darkness and distress,
When sin has power to tempt, and care to press,
Yet in the darkest day I will not fear,
For, ‘mid the shadows, Thou wilt still be near.

4. Days there may be of joy and deep delight,
When earth seems fairest, and her skies most bright,
Then draw me closer to Thee, lest I rest
Elsewhere, my Savior, than upon Thy breast.

5. And all the other days that make my life,
Marked by no special joy or grief or strife,
Days filled with quiet duties, trivial care,
Burdens too small for other hearts to share;

6. Spend Thou these days with me, all shall be Thine,
So shall the darkest hour with glory shine.
Then when these earthly years have passed away,
Let me be with Thee in the perfect day.