Some of the best things in life are unplanned, unexpected, spontaneous.
Last night, we ended up with a gathering of college students in our home. It just sort of happened. And all we did was stand around and talk for a while - but it turned out to be a scene of great encouragement for me. In fact, I stood back and marveled at the lives in our living room and I thanked God for the faith and the passion and the commitment of these young people who Julie and I have been privileged to walk with over the years.
I read a lot these days about how self-centered and self-absorbed young people are. I have no idea who is being described in those articles - certainly not the young people I know. Yeah, I know . . . college kids can be goofy and crazy. But the college kids I know are doing a lot better at living out their faith than I am.
And I'm a better person simply being in their presence.
It was interesting to me last night to realize how different all these students were. They have a shared history, but they have such varied interests and gifts. They attend very different colleges. They are working in very different fields. But they all love and respect one another - and they are all deeply devoted to their walk with Jesus. And though they have questions and doubts, they are all committed to figuring out their path and doing their best.
It was no surprise that the energy level in our home jumped as soon as the college kids showed up. What did surprise me was the reason for the energy. Mostly, the college kids were talking about their plans for the future. One student is leaving today for a mission trip to India. Two of the students are leaving early next week to serve on the staff of a great Christian camp. One student is transferring to a new school this fall, and is eager to embrace this new mission field that God has provided. Another student is getting ready for an intensive experience in the arts this summer - again, yet another opportunity to be a witness to Jesus. And that's how they see their lives - as opportunities to live out their faith.
I have these vague memories of myself when I was in college. I remember believing that God was big enough to do anything - and that God couldn't wait to use me as he worked. Over time, I think, I've lost some of that joy and passion and confidence. But what I heard and saw last night was contagious.
Almost accidentally, I found myself wanting to believe again.
I'd probably be better off if I spent more time with college kids. That doesn't happen very often, but it's great when it does. I'm pretty sure that they'll all grow up eventually. But I hope that doesn't mean that they'll lose the joyous energy that they have right now.
In the meantime, I'll choose to be with them whenever I can.
I think they've got something I want.