September 7, 2015
MARSHALL NEWS MESSENGER (9/5/2015) - East Texas Baptist University President Blair Blackburn encouraged students, faculty and staff on Friday to be the light of the world during the university's 2015-16 school year convocation ceremony.
"The light on the hill burns day and night, symbolizing enduring knowledge, guidance and truth," the university's Director of Student Success Kelley Paul said Friday referring to the institution's light on the hill. "We believe you chose is as a result of God's leadership."
Each classification of students was read a scripture as they stood up in the auditorium.
Blackburn, who is beginning his first school year as the institution's new leader, said he looks forward to the next few years with this group of students.
"We will share many firsts over the next few years," he said.
Blackburn said the heart of ETBU is its faculty and students, all of whom have a servant's heart to do God's work.
"This is distinctive of East Texas Baptist University, students who love the Lord and want to serve," he said.
Blackburn said this is God's greatest commandment, to love the Lord, with the second being to love one another.
"The faculty here will teach you how to integrate your faith with your learning, your service with your faith," he said. "For knowledge you learn, for love you serve."
Blackburn warned the students to not get distracted by temptations of this world.
"God desires for you to grow in knowledge and wisdom," Blackburn said. "What we put into our minds determines what comes out in our words and actions. Be careful what you allow to enter into your minds. Keep your eyes and thoughts on what is good and pure."
Blackburn also had encouraging words for the faculty.
"The faculty must be good stewards of their (students') minds," he said. "God has entrusted them to us, what a high calling. We need to reflect the heart of Jesus."
Assistant Psychology Professor David Deel said he's looking forward to the school year.
"I love all the energy when the students come back from summer, it's infectious," Deel said. "We will hopefully direct all that energy into the mindset of ministry and serving so we can dedicate all of our studies to the service of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Freshman Ray Quan Jones of Houston said he is happy at the university.
"I love how the teachers help you and have time for you," said Jones, who is a criminal justice major.
(Used by permission www.marshallnewsmessenger.com. Story by Education Reporter Bridget Ortigo)