Changing the Campus, One Identity At A Time (October Ministry Update)

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
- 2 Corinthians 5:17

In scripture, the bible both begins and ends with identity. One of the first statements given about mankind, Genesis 1:26 says "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness." and one of the last statements is in Revelation 21:3 "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God." We can imply from this that identity one of the key things that God wants to address with us. He's not just after what they do, but after who we are.

This has been our focus this semester with our student leaders. We believe that if they grow in who they are in relation to God, what will flow from there will change the campus around them and ultimately the world. We have talked about their identity as his children, that they don't have to perform for their Father's love; their identity as ambassadors, that they represent the kingdom of heaven in all they do; and their identity stewards, that God has entrusted them with gifts and resources and they have a responsibility to take care of what they have been given. There have been multiple testimonies from student leaders of how their lives have changed and impacted others as they have become more rooted and grounded in their identity.

This bled into Campus Sunday last month, where I got to share what it means for us to be adopted by God as His children. This truth provides so much freedom, joy, and peace because we can not work for His love or approval. We had 50+ students come out from our 6 campuses and help lead worship, host and enjoy community together. Many students are now living free of fear (fear of failure, fear of judgement, fear of man, etc) and learning what it means to truly love God and love their neighbor as themselves.

As I think of all that I just shared and the many more testimonies that have happened this year, I am reminded of you and your partnership. I am grateful for your belief in Jesus and His mission to help these future leaders know and grow in Him. Thank you again for you partnership in the gospel to see the campus changed and the world. You are helping to create a legacy of spiritually formed students who will impact their families and will change the world to the glory of His name!