Dare to be Different

                            

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!