As we begin a new year of serving students, I’m reminded of this tension we all serve within.

So much of what we do is event-based or program-driven.

And although we consistently tell ourselves that these programs and events are a necessary means to a hopeful end — the vehicle that can create the connections and opportunities for growing relationships and the right to speak into the life of a student — it can be hard (especially this time of year) to not feel like we’re merely pushers of programs and planners of events.

This, for me, is one of the places I’m reminded that God uses everything. Our programs and events — yes they’re important. We never know just how God might choose to use them in the life of a student.

The challenge, I find, is trying to be present and available to students in the midst of bringing leadership to these different programs and events.

How do you focus in on one student when you’re supposed to be connecting with all students (especially the newest members of your community)?

Again I’m reminded — God is in control.

Transformation is a process, and not an event.

It’s not the end of the world if I don’t get to connect with every student at every event. My job is really to be available to being used by God, in every circumstance, in whatever way He desires.

Just thought I’d share this with you all today — in the off-chance that you were feeling this same tension within.