March Update

To start, a quick look back...during J-term at Hamline, 10 students got together each week for discussions based on C.S. Lewis' book The Screwtape Letters. As many of you may know, this is a unique book that deals with fictitious correspondence between two demons and their efforts to influence a young man. The content of the book lends itself to many conversations about the realities of life as a college student, and our times in January proved to once again be challenging and formative (both individually and for building relationships).

St. Olaf students finding joy in the midst of the
frigid Minnesota Winter

J-term at St. Olaf provided time for a small group of students to study through the book I Once was Lost. It's a book that discusses many of the realities that postmodern students face on their journey to knowing Christ. I was not able to be a part of any of these discussions, but from what I hear, there were many good revelations that will have an impact on campus.

The transition between semesters is sometimes an interesting one as peoples' schedules change, but one big bright spot is that we welcomed back several students from their studies abroad in the Fall. I think every one I talked to expressed regret at leaving behind the various places they were staying (India, France, England, etc) to return to Minnesota in the dead of Winter, but it's been great to hear how God was at work in their lives beyond the borders of campus. 

Small groups started once again the second week of February, and at Hamline we've also had a few larger group gatherings. I personally have had many more opportunities this semester to interact with students on an individual basis, and God has been providing more clarity about how to support and disciple those students. Those meetings have touched on components of leadership training, personal growth, evangelism & outreach, and interpersonal communication...all important aspects of raising up students who have a deep understanding of how God has called them to reach their campuses. I'm excited to see how the rest of the semester plays out.

In a couple weeks (March 22-28) a few students from Hamline and St. Olaf will be traveling to Milwaukee for the Milwaukee Urban Plunge. It's an InterVarsity program that combines service with significant time in scripture. This year they'll be investigating the realities of Jesus' calls to invest in neighbors. Students who have gone in the past have come back with many positive reports, so please be praying that God would again be at work in the lives of all who go.

Look for further updates in mid-April on how God continues to work (and from students about their time in Milwaukee). In the mean time, please join in prayer for the student leaders as they balance the realities of being students and ministers on their campuses. It is taxing at times, but pray that God would affirm their calling.

Thank you so much for your prayers, support, and encouragement. To find out more about partnering in prayer, e-mail me. For financial partnership, click here.