I often fall into the trap of assuming the people I associate with are Christians. They hang out at BSM events. They attend church and hang out with other Christians. So, they must be Christians.
Kim LilleyOf course, going to a small private Baptist school, I continue to play into the stereotype that we are all Christians. I have spiritual conversations with students routinely and generally assume that I can judge whether or not they are Christians. We should be cautious about judging and assuming.
Every week during the fall, we hold a series of special services called Encounter, intended to take the shape of a revival and energize students. This year, the featured speaker was Afshin Ziafat, and the Kevin Jones Band led worship. During the first service, Afshin shared his testimony. He told how we was brought up Muslim, became a Christian and was disowned by his family. I talked to several students who were moved by his testimony and found it very powerful. I was inspired by his story.
Students worship during HPU’s Encounter event.During an evening worship service, he began to present the costs of following Jesus. Jesus’ call on all of us is “follow me,” he said. At the end of the service, he began transitioning into an altar call. My director and I went to the back of the auditorium so we could see the students who made professions.
As students began to stand, there were many I didn’t recognize—most of them I had not even met. As I continued to scan the room, I saw students I knew who were beginning to stand. I have had lunch with them and personal conversations. I even saw two girls who were guests in my apartment recently. I never thought that these students would stand up, expressing their need to follow Jesus. It’s hard to think that sometimes we miss opportunities.
It was such a beautiful sight one night when 18 students accepted Jesus as their Savior. We have spent time calling them for follow-up and inviting them to community groups and churches. I look forward to connecting with our new brothers and sisters in Christ.
I love worshipping with students. At times, it’s hard for me to focus, because I am watching their expressions and responses. I get the most joy out of seeing them respond in worship and their love for the Lord.
Kim Lilley is serving with Go Now Missions as a campus ministry intern at Howard Payne University.
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