The Power of Presence
Posted on Tuesday, March 13, 2018 by
By Rose Stupansky, Campus Life Site Director
What does it mean to walk alongside our students in ministry? To be a part of their lives? Who does God use and equip to do so? What do our students really need?
Presence. There is such power in just showing up for them, in listening to their stories. Anyone can do that. We don’t have to have a seminary degree. God doesn’t prefer certain personalities, or disqualify us at certain age, or because of a disability. We don’t have to be living a perfectly put-together life or know all the answers. All He requires is a willing heart. If you are living and breathing, you can make an impact.
Recently I was a small group leader at a Winter Camp in Fraser, CO. Over the course of 3 days, girls who I just met began opening up their lives to me and each other, sharing deep pains and even greater hopes. They cried on my shoulder as we prayed together. Why? I didn’t have any concrete answers or even know what to say at times, but I listened. I shared my own struggles and joys, that I too need to turn to Jesus in everything to make it through each day and be changed. We connected in our vulnerability and humanity.
I pray that we will all sift through the busyness of life and be present for those in our circle. Our friends, family, neighbors. We are reflecting our Good, Good Father when we do so. He is always with us - listening, pressing in, and loving us. God has called us to make disciples to the ends of the earth, and I encourage you to step out in faith. Even if it’s just one. Just show up. They need you, I need you, and God longs to work through you just as you are.
Would you like to join me? Would you like to visit our breakfast where over 100 students have been walking through our doors? Would you consider giving to our ministry so that we can continue to grow in the time and programs we are able to offer them? Thank you so much for believing in the power of God to work in all our lives. May you be blessed with the truth and beauty of His constant presence with you!
“When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” – Matthew 9:36-38
Thank you for being a part of the ongoing conversation with youth in our city and helping us share God’s story. It's our honor to be the storytellers on your behalf who meet kids right where they are and give life to their story.
Providing young people in our community with the opportunity to make an informed decision to be a follower of Jesus Christ and become part of a local church.