I first would like to state that as much as I feel like I have given to Fresno Christian it has given me so much more back. Not the building, but the journey that Christ took me on while I was here.

A road marked with redemption and transformation, Fresno Christian gave me so much more than an education and memories. It opened a door to Christ that brought me something that nothing else can match.

What I loved most about Fresno Christian and boasted to others about was the environment. Going through high school I always loved being on campus; it was a blessing. Divine relationships were formed for me, whether it is with coaches, friends, teachers or administrators; the biggest one being what I developed with Christ.

I believe that my class was marked for something special since day one: for some of us it was to change sports programs, for others it was performing arts, and as proven over our four years. Our students also continue to dominate with the one of the best online high school newspapers in America.

“You (we) did not choose me (Him), but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit?fruit that will last,” John 15:16 says.

God led me on the football field against Stone Ridge Christian (vs. Coach Mick Fuller) to envision that this year was to be a new legacy. I pray every day that FC will be continually be changed.

“Because of your (our) partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you (us) will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus,” (Phil. 1:5-6).

I know that God has had everyone here for a reason and that even though my class has endured many changes, it has all happened for a purpose. Many of us have found it difficult and struggled with questions.

The beautiful thing about God’s plan is that it is perfect: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose,” (Rom. 8:28). It has been a journey that I would not trade for anything because Christ has been the center of it.

The last thing that I want to leave Fresno Christian with is this reminder: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another,” (John 13:34-35).

That is the one thing I want this school to hold on to. We are the body of Christ, but that does not mean we have never hurt one another. I have lied to and gossiped about some of my fellow classmates as well as administrators; I have put them down and the same has happened to me in return. But that does not mean it should stay this way! We are told by Jesus to love one another AS HE LOVES US.

We should forgive much for we have been forgiven of much. “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you,” (Col. 3:12).

I hope that we all reflect on the privilege and blessing that we have had in high school to be somewhere that we can worship the Lord and talk about Him daily.