In a message addressed to the senior students, in view of the beginning of their final exams (HSC), Archbishop Makarios of Australia wished them successful results and reminded them that “the most important measure of success is how close we are to Jesus Christ”.
The Archbishop, acknowledging that the students have faced numerous hardships during the past school year, urged them to pass the exams without fear but with courage and confidence, turning to the Lord and asking for His help.
Find below the Message of Archbishop Makarios:
Dear students, my dear children in the Lord,
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, for the Lord, your God, is with you. He will not leave you and will not abandon you”. I want to share with you these words from the Old Testament, along with my blessing and best wishes for the final exams that will begin very soon.
It has been a very adverse year with the restrictions imposed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Nevertheless, you realize that it is our Lord Jesus Christ who rules our lives, as long as we turn to Him and ask for His help. So do not be afraid. There is no room for fear for God’s people. We have a loving Father and a merciful Mother, the Virgin Mary. Pray to them and ask them to be with you.
Do your best: aim high and study hard. But as your Archbishop and Spiritual Father, I want to remind you that the most important measure of success is how close we are to Jesus Christ. No matter how good or not so good your exam results will be, “everything works out for the best for those who love God,” as the Apostle Paul tells us.
Without Him, worldly achievements mean nothing. Only what lasts in eternity has substance, can make a difference and can transform our daily lives and that of those around us. Keep Him in the equation of your life and in your relationships. My dear children face the challenge before you with courage and confidence.
I wholeheartedly convey to you my support and my personal prayers for your success. Success in your exams but also success in the choices you make regarding your personal relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. Stay strong! May God give you strength and bless you all.
Source: vema.com.au