Only hours before Kim Haskins’ high school graduation, an auto accident
took the life of her father and left Kim and her mother hospitalized. The next
day, Joe Garrett, Kim’s high school principal, visited her at the hospital and
said they wanted to do something special for her at the school. The
Gazette (Colorado Springs) article by James Drew described the outpouring
of love and support as the teachers, administrators, and classmates—deeply
touched by Kim’s loss—filled the high school auditorium a few days later at a
graduation ceremony just for her.
Principal Garrett said, “We talk a lot in education about no child left
behind. In the military, they talk about no soldier left behind. Today, this is
about no graduate left behind.”
Jesus underscored the importance of every person to God with three
stories about something lost—a sheep, a coin, and a son (Luke 15). In each
story, a person has lost something of great value. When it is found, friends
and neighbors are called to celebrate and rejoice together.
The point is clear: We are all of great value to God, who offers us
forgiveness and new life through Christ. And He faithfully pursues us with His
love and grace. There is great joy in heaven over one sinner who repents (v.7).
Our value is measured by what God has done for us. (RBC)
