Note for UCSC Newsletter Spring 2020

Well this year has not gone as planned. What an understatement! The year 2020 has become something far different that any of us could have expected or planned for. For the University Christian Student Center, 2020 started off with excitement and busyness with so many things planned in view. But along with everyone else, by the end of March everything changed, or at least how we were doing everything we do as a group. There was much disappointment that the semester would not be what we thought. However, there are some very important things that have not changed despite the things that have. Likewise, there are some wonderful things that have come out of our time of being physically separated. It is because of these factors that the UCSC has continued to function and even thrive.

Philippians 1:8 states “For God as my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.” That is what Paul wrote to his brothers and sisters is Christ at the church at Philippi. Paul was unable to be with his spiritual family because he was in prison but shares his desire to see them in person. When away from Timothy, Paul wrote something very similar in 2 Timothy 1:4, “I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy.” During these times, perhaps more than ever before, we can empathize with Paul and his desire to see and be physically present with his brothers and sisters in Christ, even though he could not. Even though he could not be with them physically He still expressed his love for them. We are feeling Paul’s pain during this time but we are also finding ways to express out love for each other.

One vital component that has not changed is the love that the students have for Christ, one another and the UCSC! It has been most impressive to witness, in the last month, how undaunted our students have been in keeping their relationships alive, even while they have not been able to meet physically at the University Christian Student Center. We have been able to stay connected relationally and spiritually via phone calls and group video meetings for Bible studies, prayer groups, Monday night women’s group Bible study and Thursday night encouragement Bible studies and WGGB video updates. Along with all the ways we have been connecting, we still long and look forward to being back together physically and the University Christians Student Center. Thank you for continuing to make that possible.

Shane Meredith - Minister - Starkville church of Christ