To me, Convocation is one of the sweetest parts of coming back to campus. Watching the professors I respect and admire stride down the aisle to take their places fills me with immense pride in my school. This year was no different. The procession of faculty was followed by the singing of the TMU hymn, adapted by faculty from the words of Balthasar Hubmaier. The hymn, sung at convocation and graduation, is a beautiful psalm of praise.
“Rejoice, rejoice, ye Christians all, and break forth into singing! Since far and wide on every side the Word of God is ringing.”
After the hymn’s conclusion, Ms. Jenni Shepard, Vice President for Student Life, spoke a word of welcome to the students and an introduction of John Yarbrough, who currently serves as the Acting President of TMU. Dr. Disseau followed her and spoke on the legacy of faith in western universities.
“Faith has often been central to the foundation of higher education,” Disseau shared.
Disseau went on to introduce new faculty as they came forward to sign a statement of faith that acknowledges the authority of Scripture and states that the signer agrees with the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. Five new faculty members were added to TMU’s ranks.
Ater a time of worship, Dr. Yarbrough stepped forward and brought a powerful message for students on facing the giants in our lives. Drawing from David’s battle with Goliath in 1 Samuel 17 and then battle with four other giants in 2 Samuel 21, Dr. Yarbrough encouraged students to use this year to take on the giants in their lives and be present to slay the giants in the lives of those around them.
“Giants will keep coming,” Dr. Yarbrough stated, “You’re going to be facing them, one way or another, for all your life.”
His words were a challenge for all of us as we tackle studies, sports, and other endeavors in the coming year. They served as a reminder for us to come alongside others as they overcome their struggles. They were a call for us to go before the Lord in the days ahead and depend on Him in all things as we face our own giants.
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