“Never assume the gospel!” This is a lesson Steven, my (Cameron’s) coworker, and many on staff learn early in their careers in ministry. Just because someone comes to Bible study or church, doesn’t mean they are a Christian. Just because they have been involved for a while doesn’t mean that anyone has taken the time to explain the gospel to them. 

Last month, our team was reminded of the importance of this lesson by engaging with Eli, a student in the Fire Academy at Sierra College. Eli has attended the Cru Bible study a handful of times in the past year. He is very attentive and often asks earnest questions, but with his busy class schedule he often comes late and leaves early. This time, however, he came an hour early with his lunch and sat with Steven and Matt (a local church volunteer, pictured above). It was the first time that there was space for Steven to ask Eli about his story. 

His family moved around a lot because of work and financial reasons. He would sometimes attend church with his mom, until he left to serve in the Marine Corps for four years. He was intrigued by a Christian in his unit who would sacrifice precious sleep time to read his Bible. This friend’s character and behavior made Eli curious! 

Then Steven asked Eli the question that so often gets overlooked: “Has anyone ever shared with you how to have a relationship with God through Jesus?” No one ever had. 

Steven then shared with him about God’s love, our sin, and Jesus’ sacrifice, all so that we can know God personally. Eli decided to pray right then and there to invite Jesus into his life!

Thank you so much for your part in helping students like Eli come to know Jesus!

PRAYER REQUESTS

• Praise God for Eli hearing the gospel clearly and committing his life to Jesus! Pray for him to be grounded in his new relationship with the Lord.
• Pray for Cameron, her mom, and our family as we grieve and process the loss of her stepdad. Pray for her as she slowly reenters normal rhythms.
• Pray for ministry on campus, for God to raise up new leaders and for students to be bold in their faith.