Redeemer: Need I Say More?

Flip flops and tank tops, basketballs and volleyballs, the bright sun shining, laughter and smiles, rollerblading and biking, running and walking, sun-tanning, and of course, a few classes here and there. These are just a few of the activities that I have seen occurring numerous times over the past week on Redeemer campus.

Once spring hits, you can be sure that more on-campus students will be outside than inside. The beautiful weather this week really provided a good break in the midst of a crazy semester. Only one month of classes to go! Feelings of pressure to do well in classes and tensions regarding summer jobs are high, and in some cases, the emotional rollercoaster has reached top speed. Of course, it is times like these that God uses to open up the door for new experiences, for pressures to be relieved, and for tensions to be calmed. For me, and for a lot of other people I’m sure, the bright and shining sun this week provided both intense relaxation and an opportunity to revel in God’s wonder and majesty in the middle of a hectic day, week, and month.

I also attended Coffee House this Thursday night. Whenever I attend one of these, I am amazed at the different acts that Redeemer students perform. A little Avril Lavigne, a skit regarding Campus Visit Days at Redeemer, some comedy here and there, a video competition, and of course, some more comedy. What also struck me this time was the openness of one particular student. One student shared a song that he had written for his older brother who passed away suddenly in December. His song spoke of hope, renewal, and truth. As he sang, tears were flowing freely from many people’s eyes, and hearts were being opened to the power of God. One student, who has experienced heart-wrenching pain at the loss of his brother, has taken all that he has learned and used it to bless his fellow students.

That is what is so unique about both Coffee House and Redeemer in general. We have so much opportunity here. We have so much freedom to share our experiences, to talk with others about hard situations we are facing or burdens we are carrying. We have been blessed in that our community has grown closer and closer over the years, and I am positive that God’s love is evident in our school, on our campus, and in the hearts of the students, staff and faculty that attend or work at Redeemer. There is no doubt in my mind that Redeemer is a powerful place and that God truly is at work here.