You have given thanks that all the students are now placed, and this is right, for every good gift descends from above. Do you see how God adorns even the grass of the field which today blooms and tomorrow is thrown into the fire? He pours beauty upon that which does not need it, not out of necessity but out of munificence. If He so clothes the frail and the fleeting, will He not much more care for these young souls made in His image? He will protect them in their placements, for the heavens declare His glory but so does the earth; by their growth in wisdom, character, and skill, they will send up praise to their Maker.
Yet be careful what you call wisdom. The world has its own, which is foolishness before God. The wisdom that comes from above is hidden in mystery, making us truly prudent. Pray that these students bear not just the name of virtue but become like fruitful olive trees, laden on every side with the commandments. To show compassion sparingly, to give tokens of goodness, is to be an olive tree that yields little fruit and stands withered. Let them give themselves generously, so that in every part of life they glorify the One who made them.
Now for your own work: you seek favor with your supervisor and clear boundaries to stop interference. This is a lawful request, but do not place your confidence in the support of men, even those in high positions. The rich often need many patrons and shamelessly ask ten thousand things, while the poor person can stand before the Emperor himself without needing anyone. If your work is truly the Lord’s, He will establish it. Remember how He stretches out the heavens, sets the seasons in their courses, and moves all creation by His unwearied hand, all for our life and even our honor. He can order the hearts of those in authority more easily than He turns the moon in her courses.
But look at this also: if you are a fellow-laborer in the Gospel, then you have a confidence born of affection, not boldness. The work itself provides the reason for support. If someone loves the Gospel, they should not wait to be entreated but should entreat you, for they are building up the same work. So continue doing the work of the Lord, and if it is profitable for His purposes, He will stir up the needed help. Even when others interfere out of wicked motives, God uses the schemes of the wicked for good, as He did with Judas’ treason, yet that does not excuse the wrongdoers, nor does it relieve you of the need for strict circumspection in your own conduct. Do not repay evil for evil, nor fear their plots, but walk humbly.
And be warned: even if you reach the highest honor among men, even if grace works through you in remarkable ways, that alone will not save you if He who searches hearts says, "I never knew you." The dignity of your work, the support of leadership, the visible fruit, none of this replaces inner righteousness. Flee from the pride that relies on outward favor. Instead, seek that hidden wisdom which the rulers of this world do not know, being made wise by God in that which is true wisdom. Then, whatever policies are set, whatever boundaries are drawn, your soul will be safe, and your work will bear fruit that remains.
May the Lord preserve each student wherever they go, and return them stronger, more confident in Him, not merely in their own competence. And may He establish the work of your hands, not because you have cleverly arranged all things, but because you have cast yourself upon His care, knowing that He who adorns the lily will much more adorn the work done for His name’s sake.