Empty Graduation Speeches

I’ve noticed a troubling trend that’s infected most graduation speeches. The speaker—whether a school president, celebrity, or honor student—all stumble while trying to eloquently define real success or the reason to be hopeful for the future.

When attending graduation ceremonies at secular schools, I know there will be no reference to God. But surprisingly, even at Christian universities, where a few Bible verses are quoted, it’s made clear that the graduates, not God, hold the key to a better world.

The primary message at each graduation was some version of the following: In our rapidly changing world, we must rapidly change as well. Adaptability is our greatest strength as we accelerate into the unknown. So let’s enter the uncertainty, be true to who we are, and lead boldly. 

In other words, the apparent antidote is to embrace this uncertain world with vague positivity and equal uncertainty. Accept everything yet believe in nothing. Forget the past and reject reality while forging a future in our ever-changing image. It’s a universal “you do you” message on steroids.  

I can’t imagine worse advice. Yet that’s as good as it gets when God is removed from the picture. 

In these lost and uncertain times, we don’t need any more empty graduation speeches. We need more of God.

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