4 Months In...

Four months on the job at the Wesley House at Ferris.  Four whole months!  In some ways it has flown, in others it feels like it has been a long series of new adventures, roles, and lots of unanswered questions (like how DO you fix the mysterious leak above my desk?)  Students need a United Methodist presence on their campuses.  While we have Wesley Foundations present on five campuses (FSU, CMU, MSU, GVSU, WMU) there are many other campuses in West Michigan that need to know the open hearts, minds and doors of the UMC.  Overall though, I have come to many new realizations.  Here's a few:

• The thing that makes Wesley Campus Ministries different than lots of other campus churches is the importance we place on leadership development.  Now, I am NOT saying that all of our students will become pastors.  I am saying that a high percentage of our students will bring an active and passionate love of Christ into the world and into the church.  Our entire goal is to empower them to be ministers right in the midst of their campus.  
• United Methodist theology is the message the world needs - but let's just start small with those young adults facing that looming question of "What am I going to do with my life?"  the cool part is that our students are wrestling with faith in the midst of discovering their God-purpose on the planet.  It's not just about making $$ or even which field might offer them the most job prospects.  Many of our students are discovering their gifts in the midst of discussions about grace, works, and discipleship.  I think we can all agree that this is a very good thing for the world.
• Without the connection and ministry shares we wouldn't exist.  We are sort of like a new church start every for years with a missionary sort of feel.  While we directors are paid I realize now that every single one of us would probably take less of a salary if it were permitted.  For us it is about mission:  making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.  If you get to know us you will realize that all of us are SO hopeful and joy-filled because we get to see the church of NOW....and the church of what's next.  
• Because of this realization I truly believe that Wesley Campus Ministries can be the motivating force in our conference.  We can bring light and hope to an often challenging system.  We can prove that our the UMC is still very relevant - that God's not done with us yet!  Campus ministry is a movement, it is overwhelming, it is fun.  It is steeped in prayer and relationship.  Most of all it takes a boat-load of trust that God will provide what we need to reach those students that long to know the love of God.  

I've also realized a few things about myself  - 

• I have no patience.  This is a tough one.  I always thought I was ok with this, but now am realizing how LONG it takes to develop a program, train up leaders, and figure out this thing called campus ministry.  The good news = despite my shortcomings God has blessed us this first semester.  The bad news = once I get this year figured out it will be summer and the whole thing will change again with graduation and new faces in the fall.  
• I miss the church.  I'm a travelling preacher these days, but have run out of gigs at this point.  While it is a blast to fill in for pastors that are away, I really miss having that rhythm of Sunday morning preaching and celebrating.  I am attending church for the first time in a long time and it is a good thing.  I think I have some soul work to do and this is the time to do it!
• This ministry takes a lot of heart.  Campus ministry is NOT youth ministry.  It isn't about planning lessons or events.  Sure that's a part of it - but the real heart of campus ministry is about being real.  These students know we are trained, they know we are pastors - but most of all they know we are real people who are on this journey of faith with them.  It's about coming alongside the students at their best times and worst - about encouraging and holding accountable.  Nothing makes you more vulnerable than being truly open with a young person, reassuring them that they're not alone and that we have been there before too.  

As we enter into lots of larger discussion surrounding our purpose and whether or not these Wesley's are an effective use of funds I want you all to know that the answer is yes.  I invite you to come and meet us - pick the campus closest to you - encounter worship and study that is directly impacting the UMC.  Come and worship in a space that requires nothing from you and allows you to be wherever you are - wear whatever you want - and say whatever God puts on our hearts.  

I'm going to try to keep this blog up - as a way to process and hold myself accountable to this journey.  Feel free to read and comment if you like I'd love to hear your thoughts.  

Blessings my friends.