Hello Support Family!
I pray that as we are entering the heart of the Christmas season that you and your families are well. It's hard to believe but the first semester at the University of Tennessee is in the books! The Lord has been so faithful and favorable to our efforts on this campus. Though the moral and spiritual culture of this campus is quite dark, God has graciously allowed us to be salt and light. I find myself reflecting on all that our Father has done since we got here and it humbles me greatly. I pray that the stories and pictures below encourage you like they have me. This semester of small beginnings has taught me more than I ever imagined and has brought me closer to the Lord than I thought it could. I feel so blessed to have all of your individual prayers and donations bolstering the start of this new ministry. You are truly making an impact on not only all these students, but on me as well.
In light of Christmas drawing near, I want to encourage each of you to bask in the joyous truth that we celebrate. Christ has come! Our sin has been paid for and our lives have been ransomed from the clutches of sin and death. The birth of the baby Christ is our joy because that baby would grow up and carry our punishment on Calvary. I urge you not to simply remember this truth, but to swim in it! God has sacrificed not only his treasure and his status, but even His very self. Let this love overwhelm you as you celebrate this Christmas season with your family and loved ones. Much love to each of you!
Drink some eggnog for me,
Ben
One day Gil and I found a car that people were smashing. I personally refrained from hitting it because it was painted with my Alma mater's colors. You can probably see that Gil really enjoyed himself though!
Meet Joey and Greyson! They are freshman this year at UT and they are both from Nashville. Though they each grew up in the church, they have confessed that they aren't sure of their faith. Please pray that God would give me more opportunities to council and share with them!
This is a photo of our Sunday night prayer meeting that we call Campus Community on Mission (Campus COM). These students meet every week to pray for their lost friends and for their own walks with the Lord. It has been a privilege to watch these young men and women grow this semester!
Personal Update: I legitimately hate running but I love Hannah so I ran a 5K with her. She's in better shape than me, but I'm more camera-aware than she is so I think that means we balance each other out! Thanks for taking time to read this update, may the love of Christ be our joy this Christmas!