The hazy skyline reappeared as a jumbled assortment of lights. A siren, no, make it TWO sirens, screeched in the distance. I walked onto campus. I was back for another round of Chicago, Bible college, and life lessons.

Since arriving on Sunday night, I’ve been caught in a weird sort of limbo. Let me put it this way: it’s going to take a lot longer than I originally thought to become familiar with the unfamiliarity. 

The average college turnover rate is minimum 25% because of graduating seniors, let alone the people who transfer, take time off, or don’t return at all. Things have to change; that’s life and growth and moving forward. It’s exciting, it’s weird, it’s hard to like, it’s great….

It’s difficult, but in the best way.

I know the Lord has much in store and much to teach me. He’s already teaching me by default by throwing twelve new freshmen girls into my life. My prayer is to love them well. 

Being a part of the campus women’s ministry group has thrown me together with some excellent and driven individuals who seek to disciple our campus through Gospel-centered events and small groups. I’m so excited to be a part of it all, especially on the event-planning and administrative side of things. We had a great time tonight kicking off fall training. I love watching people grow in Christ and come together like that.

However, it’s been strange not having the same people surrounding me as last year and being (essentially) forced into meeting new ones. I love it, but I don’t….it’s complicated.

One thing is constant! One thing is sure! “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Jesus, thanks for not changing. Thanks for being here–with me, all the time. Sure, I can’t really “feel” God with me, but I can know and trust he is here.

When change comes, we must remember that A) we are not alone, in more ways than one, and B) without change, we cannot grow!

This will be an interesting journey. I can’t see what the end looks like (and I’ve stopped bothering to try), but I want to come out more like Jesus. I want to love and know God. I want others to see him in me. 

Let’s begin. Round 2.