Ministry

How Do You Want to Be? 

Reflections from the Year 12 Valedictory Service

At this week’s Valedictory Service, we paused to celebrate not just the achievements of our Year 12 students, but the people they are becoming. 

One question we often ask young people, especially at this time of year is: 

"What do you want to do?"

 "What job will you pursue?" 

"What course will you study?" 

These are important questions. But there’s another one we don’t ask nearly enough: 

“How do you want to be?” 

Not many people dream of being a stressed-out engineer, a lonely doctor, or a highly successful person who’s deeply unhappy. And yet, we often see these stories play out in real life: people doing well on paper, but struggling with anxiety, burnout, or disconnection. 

At Endeavour College, we’ve talked this year about Pursuing Excellence with God. But excellence isn’t just about achievement, it’s about the kind of person you’re becoming along the way. True excellence includes joy, peace, and purpose. And that kind of life is available to everyone. 

In Philippians 4, we hear: 

"Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all… Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds." 

So how do we move toward that kind of life? It’s simpler than we think: 

• Be close to God – Because God is near, we’re not alone. 
• Think well – Focus your mind on what is good and true. 

• Imitate the right people – Look to those who live with character and kindness. 

   

Whether you’re in Year 7 or Year 12, staff or family, this message is for all of us. Life isn’t just about what you’ll do, but how you’ll be. 

May we all pursue a life that’s full—not just of success, but of joy, peace, and meaning. 

Chris Mann

College Pastor