Tis the season for thankfulness! As I look around and see where God has led us as an organization this year, I am thankful. As I look back on my college years, I am thankful for the foundation that was laid for me to continue to contribute to campus ministry even after walking the stage. I can remember my first experience with Chi Alpha, a swell time at Sewell Park with free barbecue and great music. This month I would like to focus on three Chi Alpha calling cards that I am thankful for today.
I am thankful for the mentors I had in Chi Alpha. I remember the one-on-one mentor sessions where my POD leader would walk with me around the town square or around campus. Sometimes the talks encouraged me, sometimes they challenged me, but each time they led me to seek God more and see his hand on my life.
I am thankful for the prayers of my friends in ministry. When struggling through semesters, or praying for guidance about my future, my Chi Alpha family was always ready to pray with me. I recall the many prayer walks we would schedule and focus our petitions toward a move of God on our campus. Lifting each other up in prayer is beautiful tradition that I try and carry with me into my next stage of life.
I am thankful that I can still contribute to the cause. My collegiate career ended December of 2012, but the campus continues to grow and change rapidly. What has not changed, though, is the need for strategic missions on our college campuses across this nation. While I’ll not be hanging out in the quad or cruising to the local coffee shop any time soon, I amable to sow into the lives of students with my giving, and support the local missionaries who enter this mission field every day.
In looking back with a spirit of thankfulness, I notice that these elements of Chi Alpha culture are the bedrock for the National Chi Alpha Alumni Association’s vision of a mobilized army of former students who are ready and willing to Connect, Pray, and Give in an effort to see the calling of Chi Alpha expand across campuses in our country. That must be why many people feel comfortable joining the Alumni Association: it feels like home! As we travel during this holiday season and spend time reminiscing with our loved ones, please reflect how God orchestrated your time in Chi Alpha and try to remember to send up a prayer of thanks. If you’d like to renew your commitment to this incredible organization, I encourage you to check out the rest of chialphaalumni.com.
Be Blessed and Encouraged!