There was no air conditioning in the gym that night. The school sponsored polyester white graduation cap and gown felt like a poorly fitted Halloween costume with its own built-in sauna. My chair was squeaky, my shoes were tight and it took forever to hear my name.

But none of that mattered as I walked across the stage to accept my diploma. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see my parents’ smiles. When the ceremony was over, I couldn’t wait to see them. Mom and Dad wrapped me in hugs. "Great job, we’re so proud of you….this is such a big day," they gushed.

In one of Jesus’ parables, four servants were given talents, but only one servant pleased his master.

"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!" (Matt 24:21 NIV, NAB)

Someday, I will hear my name called again. As I stand before God, my creator, what will he say to me?