My wife, Christine, graduated on May 19 from the University of Notre Dame Graduate School with a M.A. degree in Theology. The speaker for the Graduate School commencement was Dr. Thomas Quinn, a Notre Dame alumnus and a world-renowned and pioneer researcher on AIDS.
Dr. Quinn began his commencement address by relating that he sought to draw inspiration for his address from the speaker at his own commencement — only to realize that he did not remember who the speaker was or what he had said. Dr. Quinn then proceeded to deliver a memorable and inspirational address of his own!
The theme of the address was “Carpe Diem” — Seize the Day.” Dr. Quinn discussed four general topics around which he encouraged the graduates to “seize the day.”
As I pondered his address, it occurred to me that of all the people who have “seized the day” and thus had great influence, Jesus certainly did so. We can see that from the events of his life as told by the Gospel writers. Here are some thoughts, then, using Dr. Quinn’s four topics, on how Jesus “seized the day” and demonstrated to us how we should do so.
(1) Family — There are a few occasions in the Gospels where we read about Jesus interacting with his family. In Luke 8, Jesus is told that is family is outside, and he responds by saying, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear and do the Word of God.” Jesus’ seized the day with his family. He made every effort to influence them for the Kingdom of God, and eventually his family would also follow him. Do you make every effort to influence your family for Christ? Do you make the people of God your family ?
(2) Mentorship — One of the striking things about Jesus’ ministry was how he mentored twelve men, those he appointed as apostles. They became the individuals who led the early church. You no doubt have people who mentored you to faith in Christ and in your faith in Christ. Learn from them and then look for opportunities to mentor others.
(3) Collaboration — Even Jesus did not depend solely upon himself for his ministry. At one point, he sent the twelve out two-by-two to minister in his name. In Luke 10, he sent out 70 “to every town and place he himself was about to go.” Then, when he ascended, he left his followers to carry on his ministry, and all those who follow him continue to do so. In order to grow in Christ and minister effectively, we need to collaborate with other Christians. Every ministry of our congregation is a collaborative effort. Look for opportunities to collaborate.
(4) Influence — Jesus used his trials and successes to influence people’s lives. The greatest influence of all came through his greatest trial — his death — and his greatest success — his resurrection. As we serve others and interact with family and friends, we will make mistakes, but we will also have successes. We can use both to grow and develop in order to serve more effectively in the future if we “seize the day.”
Christine’s graduation was a memorable day, and Dr. Quinn’s address was also memorable. Jesus, though, teaches us the most about “seizing the day,” about living by faith. Learn from him, and “seize the day” in your life.
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