Ignite reflection
Last week I got to be part of a very awesome conference called Ignite. Ignite is the bi-annual youth conference of Every Nation. I've been hearing about it for some time and this year, I resolved to be part of it. And praise God because provided the way for me to be in that conference through new found friends in Lifebox ministry.
Ignite 2013 saw the convergence of 9600 students from the Philippines and with that 200+ international students from all over Asia. I remember saying to myself on the first day, after seeing what's before my eyes: "I am on the right track." Meaning, student ministry is the way to go. We cannot neglect the reaching out of students and this needs to continually be realized among the Assemblies of God.
Some of my memorable highlights included the sessions that were powerfully preached by men of God, especially those of Ptr. CJ and Ptr. Steve Murrell. Ptr. CJ is the national director of Lifebox. He talked about a very in-your-face message about sexual purity. Ptr. Steve Murrell, started the Victory movement back in the 80s. One of my "remote" mentors that I consider, I usually read his blogs and to finally listen to hear preach was a blessing. Every moment had something special in them. I have learned new things about putting up a conference like that.
Worship moments were so powerful. What struck me was how unapologetic they are about the gift of tongues. First night, the opening production opened with 3 people praying in tongues! It was so new and powerful. First night also saw the challenge to be baptized in the Holy Spirit. First night also saw the consecration of all the delegates as everyone kneeled down and prayed for holiness to set in their hearts. The theme of the conference by the way is on Holiness - A holy life, a holy calling.
Fun moments included the Kinect Wars where in campus missionaries from different universities battled it out on stage by dancing with Kinect. It was so funny for a while. The conference also had surprise celebrity guests during their halftime shows: Rachel Ann Go, Yeng, Quest, Christian Bautista and Ogie Alcasid, all professing to be born again Christian, saved through Victory.
Along the way I've met some students from Siliman Dumaguete, Ateneo, CEU and UST. I'm so encouraged to know that Lifebox started with students from UST. They say they number now to 400, which is awesome. This is very encouraging because we are set on starting Chi Alpha in UST. What struck me with their conversations is how are they intentional in reaching out to the influencers of the campus like varsities, student councils and school leaders.
As a national campus ministry leader, this conference has made a huge impact in me as an individual and as a leader. This conference widened my vision and showed me what can be possible. It gave me ideas especially on our upcoming conferences in 2014 and 2015. It encouraged me that I'm part of something greater. On the last night I said to my friend "Sila na!" meaning they really pulled it off really well. Part of me was rejoicing with them, so much that I want to be part of them. But I know my place and my purpose. God has placed each one of us for such a time as this. Someone needs to rally our students on our end.
As a campus pastor in University Belt, I am encouraged that we are not alone. To see the body of Christ move in the campus, knowing that you are in arms with other believers, other leaders was something to be thankful about. I have to remind myself that there is no quitting to the cause because someone is already doing it, but like Ptr. Steve Murrell said, it's never enough until everyone hears the gospel. I have to remind myself that there are still many students who need Christ and every Christian movement in University Belt is important to reach this city.
Next week, the opening of classes starts once again. And I praying for more. More students brought into the kingdom of God. According to our capacity, resources and manpower, everything should be mobilized to reach them. According to God's love and power that sustains us, Lord, do great things among our midst.
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