I
thought my college life would be the same as what teens my age usually do. But
I was wrong. I was called to be different and all my experiences helped me grow
in faith and understand the value of living.
Even
before entering college, my sister has been inviting me to join a certain
“group”. The group was named Christ’s Youth in Action which aims to evangelize
people especially the youth. At first, I was hesitant to join because I don’t
usually expose and involve myself in big groups. I was kind of introvert. But
because of my sister’s influence, I ended up joining their activities. It was
hard for me because I didn’t have a classmate or friend with me. I was often
nervous during activities because I’m afraid to be left out. But the CYA
brothers and sisters made me feel comfortable and at home. Another thing was
that I felt awkward and conscious during praise and worship because we don’t
really do that in our home and seeing my sister lifting her hand and praising
God made me realize that something has changed in her. I was happy to see her
like that, also sharing her time and talent with the brothers and sisters. From
that time on, I knew God is up to something with me.
After the series of talks and
activities, I became a CYA member (CYAer). I was filled with gladness and joy
because I know God really wanted me to belong in the community. There were lots
of changes. My relationship with my sister was not the same as before. I
learned to be vocal and honest to her. We bond often and we came to know each
other deeply. There was really a big difference to the “us” before and now.
Another is I learned that an everyday communication with God is very important.
I started to establish my prayer time and do it in my room or in the school
chapel. It really feels good to lift up the rest of the day to Him. It gives me
an assurance that whatever happens, may it be good or bad, it’s all part of his
wonderful plans. CYA was really used by God to mould me. The introvert me is
now trying to reach out to others and is now trying to build up self-esteem. I
learned to be responsible and also to get out of my comfort zone. I learned the
value of sacrifice and service together with my brothers and sisters. Indeed, I
learned a lot.
Evangelizing
is planting the words of God in a person’s heart. We do it out of the desire to
be obedient, the love for the lost and the love for God. Now that the seed on
me has grown, it’s time for me to plant new seeds to my family, friends and
other people. “We cannot keep to
ourselves the words of eternal life given to us in our encounter with Jesus
Christ: they are meant for everyone, for
every man and woman. It is our responsibility to pass on what, by God’s grace,
we ourselves have received” (Verbum Domini).
Kay Kristo Buong Buhay, Habambuhay!
