When I talk to my friends about doing campus ministry fundraising usually comes up as what people think is the hardest part of doing what I do.
What I have found over the past 3 years is that fundraising and campus work for the gospel really parallel each other. In both cases I am inviting people into a vision of the kingdom of God through Jesus. On campus I invite students to be a part of something that matters to be a part of our vision as CU IV of knowing Christ and making Him known on every corner of campus at CU. That's really the same vision I am inviting people to give financially, serve with time and pray for when I meet with people or contact people when I fundraise. Sometimes I lose sight of the vision and like the students I lead our invitations can look more like: hang out with us we are a great community and we are Christian. And when I lose sight of the vision in fundraising my asks sound sad like: I really need your help so I can have more hours on campus to meet with students.
We always have to come back to our vision. I work for InterVarsity because I believe Jesus is real and I want every student at CU to be invited to make an informed decision yes or no for Jesus. First we have to go and bring the gospel to every corner and every community and people group, every dorm, and every student on campus. And then those that say yes or who want to join us we disciple so that they begin to Know Christ more. And as they do we challenge them into the mission of Jesus: to go and be sent into their world to make more disciples. Some of them do and I get to see as they thrive in Christ growing in character, faith, vision, sacrificial love and they get to see people they invest in take steps towards Jesus. Then every four years we send these students into the world and they go to many corners of the US and the world. God is the one at work at CU: but I love that together we get to plant seeds and water them and watch as God grows students into His disciples!
This is the vision I want to invite people to give financially, with time and prayer towards!
I am so thankful for the people who have supported me along the way. So many people have believed in me and this vision. Even in the hard times on campus and in fundraising a team of people have given and prayed for CU and me and encouraged me. I just want to say Thank you! You are changing my world and the kingdom of God is coming at CU breaking in one student at a time as they take a risk for Jesus or take a step towards Jesus. Your monthly and recurring giving especially has made a huge difference.
My prayer is that each one of you would know the difference you are making and that you would in heaven see the eternal treasure of people who are there in heaven because of your partnership in this ministry!
God I ask for continued partnership and new people to partner with you and me and CU IV in this vision!
Thank you God and Thank you CU IV partners!
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