by Hansol An

As in past years, the 2012-2013 school year has started off at a full sprint. Since SDSU’s school year started a little over two months ago, we’ve had six bible studies, tabling on two campuses, a luau, campus evangelism every weekday at UCSD, an equipping event, and office hours. That is all outside of the enumerable hours spent fellowshipping and studying together outside of official College Life events. Though things have slowed down a bit recently the ministry continues on at a brisk pace.

Friday night bible studies remain the primary vehicle of teaching and fellowship in this ministry but the great thing about College Life is that it goes beyond one night a week. As the staff has imparted to the students, College Life, like every other affinity group, is an integral part of the church body. The students have done a tremendous job of living out this fact. It can be easy for collegians to isolate themselves as a group from the rest of the church but that has not happened. In nearly every ministry at church you can find a collegian serving. As they meet with families and single adults outside of Sundays, you can see their heart for the rest of the church.

Characteristic of this ministry in recent years, and continuing into this year, is its consistency in living out what they are taught from the pulpit and in small groups. Whether it’s their desire to conduct campus evangelism, their thoughtfulness in remembering a friend’s birthday, or their inclusiveness in informal hangouts, this group continues to “shine the light.” There is a level of maturity that this group consistently displays not often seen in 18 to 22 year olds. They belie the cultural norm of delayed adolescence and glorified immaturity that, in turn, reveals a teachable and humble heart.

But even with all their many admirable attributes, they are not perfect and have room for growth. As a staff, our charge is to challenge, encourage and guide them down the path of biblical growth that leads to even greater maturity and Godlier thinking. During bibles studies this year we are going through 1 John, a book that challenges each of them to examine the evidence of saving faith displayed in their lives. In small groups the ladies are going through Girls Gone Wise in a World Gone Wild and the men are reading What Every Man Wishes His Father Had Told Him. Each book was chosen for its practical wisdom aimed specifically at young adults immersed in a culture that tells them to run from God. We hope that this ministry can pace them as they run the race for God.