Andy's Story

Our students have returned from the Boston Winter Conference and had an awesome time! I (Joe) have really enjoyed hearing the stories of a few students and what the Lord shared with them there. Since Jen and I weren't there this year, I asked one student (Andy from UAlbany) to share a little bit about how God used the conference to impact his life. Enjoy reading...

My name is Andy and I am a junior at the University at Albany. This was
my first time going to BWC. For the first time, I was at a retreat among
other college students who were just as committed as me to seeing our
lives and our campuses reflect God's glory. The friends I made here will
last for a long time and into eternity, I am sure, and I can't wait to go
back.

I guess what struck me the most about being with these people was how much
everyone owned thier faith. It was no longer a parent's faith, or a youth
pastor's faith. It is ours, and it is real because of the Holy Spirit who
lives in us. I just saw others like myself seeking after God in a
personal relationship and it reminded me that the battle is still being
fought everywhere for Jesus to be lifted up.

God really showed me a lot about the "win, build, send" model of
evangelism and discipleship and missionary work. God helped me become
more secure and willing to accept my position as a small group leader and
as one entrusted with Jesus' disciples. I can say in a fresh way: I am
honored to be part of the Great Commission on my campus because of the
breath of fresh spiritual air that came from BWC.

God also gave me some specific directions for my educational path that
have challenged me to "walk by faith, not by sight". Although I am still
scared, I trust God and I am so appreciative for all of the examples of
faith I was able to witness at BWC so that I could "run with perserverance
the race marked out for me" because of "this great cloud of witnesses"
(Hebrews 12:1).

Overall, BWC was an awesome experience, allowed me fellowship time with
other Christians, allowed me worship time to thank God, let us experience
the joy of outreach and partnering in God's sovereign salvation, and, most
of all, gave me time to stand on the mountain and hear the sweet voice of
my Savior. So thank you, Jesus, and thank you, BWC!