Look for Something Special

Okay, so, recently I took my youngest off to college. I know, it kind of makes you reflect somewhat. So, here is a letter I sent to him. Guess it is a mom thing.

Hi son,

‘Just had something on my mind that I wanted to tell you about. I know that you are connecting with other Christians on campus, and will be in the process of figuring out what group and church to get involved with—that may take a little bit of time to figure out. As you do this, I want you to consider some things.

On a campus that size, there is no doubt that you will be able to find a good number of Christians and other people of faith. And you will have several groups/organizations to choose from as well. They will be fun people, most singing the same songs you’re used to, talking about some of the same scriptures, and organizing good fun ways to recreate together and to become friends. So much so that it may be hard to decide which group to commit your involvement, time and service to.

Let me encourage you to look for something special. Look for a group of people (and a friend or two) who believe so much in what they believe (the things that Jesus did and taught), that they live like it…not just at the group gatherings, but in the dorm, in class, around town, with their boss, around their parents. Groups are made up of all kinds of people in all stages of a dedicated walk with God. You know that. So, there will be those who are still trying to make it work in their lives in any group of much size. Just make sure there are plenty who have already figured some of that out, and are living consistently by the principles set out in the Word. Then, ask God to develop a friendship or two for you with someone like that, who can be an encouragement, and whom you can encourage—you know, “Iron sharpens iron.” I will be praying for that for you as well. It is great to go thru college with a friend who can stand by you in your faith.

I had a friend or two like that in college. You have met one of them, Mary Power. She genuinely took time to get to know me, love me for who I was and what I had to contribute and be a good friend. She was a lot of fun too. Movies, late night donuts and lots of laughs... she encouraged me, challenged me and loved me along the way. Those are the good kind of friendships I am praying for God to give you.

Groups/people that aren’t living life like they really believe what they say they believe… they just go around in circles. Never growing much, always falling back into the same old ruts, same old sins, same bad habits, same old complaints, same frustrations. Just make sure you look for the special ones…the ones who really do believe.

Love you lots,
Mom