I see a “training” or “character building” program in Scripture that God is actively involved in. For example, God placing people in solitude (David), under a teacher (Timothy), in difficulty (Joseph) to prepare them for the next phase of life, ministry, role or choices the person will make. Now maybe it’s less of a program than I’ve stated but it’s interesting to see the following decisions and roles these people faced. Similarly for us, we cannot (and maybe God will not) move us forward until we have these transitional, preparational experiences. Some are more foundational then others. I believe the ultimate preparation is of the heart that centers our identity, strength, success and joy in God.
The Graduate Assistantship Program is one of those foundational experiences designed to give students this opportunity. In nine months they will both study and experience first-hand the practice and theory of outdoor ministry while growing in the character it takes to serve and lead in it. It’s an “all hands on deck” experience hosting and serving various groups or retreats involving setting up the programming for both the individual and the collective group to experience Jesus on many levels. Meanwhile students also are discovering and facing their own gifts, fears as they serve in a community-based effort. It’s a dynamic process that combines experience, evaluation, learning and encouragement as a means of “character formation” and preparation for what God may use them in next.
I hope our time with students who leave our ministry have the foundations to make wise and holy choices; to love and fully engage themselves in Gods mission around the world at any level, difficulty or time in culture. Becoming servants who will be actively engaging in other people’s lives not needing a desk, or title or role. It has become who they are, or a lifestyle that has fully engaged in mission.