Finding Your Spot

elizabethhaleytyson.blogspot.com

Finding Your Spot

Lacey Csaszar, Fall 2015

            Now that college has challenged a young Christian in so many ways, those who are still faithful have the chance to find their spot in their college community. There are local churches run by students or that welcome students as well as Christian organizations and large events that are for Christians that are in the same season. It can be refreshing and a bit of safe haven for those that have to spend the next 4 years in this town. This can create new challenges for students though, some churches may do things differently than at home or have a slightly different view on key topics than how they were raised and this may become a point of contention between them and their family or friends from home as well.

            Many young Christians need a place where they can go to and not feel regularly rejected by the world around them. They need a place that when someone hears that they are a Christian, they aren’t immediately placed in a mental box that says who they are and what they must believe. Many times these assumptions are incorrect or misjudged by people who don’t have a large enough world view.

            This is why groups such as Delta Alpha Chi, a Christian Sorority exist, and ministries such as CRU and conferences such as Passion are so successful. As a young Christian I know that sometimes I am tired of feeling like I need a break from constantly defending my faith against those who are either ignorant or seek power in belittling me and my views. I try my best not to offend others by pestering them or being constantly in their face with my views, they are my own, not theirs, and I can respect that. I have been told off before for being different and asked to “kiss my a**” when I told a relative I would pray for them.

            I’m ready for the world to be different, the kind of world where no one fights wars over religious ideas or view, the kind that promotes peace and belonging for all outsiders. So many religions are similar in so many ways, but those who decide to shut their eyes only notice the differences, and cast out those who may walk a different path. Even as a Christian, I feel as if I know the truth, but I still feel compassion for every person I meet, no matter their race, religion or sex. We need more of that in the world, and I know I am not perfect either, but at least I try, that’s all we can do.