Reminiscing campus ministry

I miss the campus ministry. Anyone who was converted in the campus ministry can probably agree that it is the best, most exciting part of Christian life -- sort of like, the "high school life" of being a disciple.

I have very fond memories of the quiet times at the Department of Tourism stairs. The "DOT" stairs as we used to call it. Back then, I didn't mind waking up so early in the morning to spend some really, really quality prayer times with God before my college classes started. It was awesome to pray with other student disciples and get to know their highs and lows. Oh, we shed tears and shared laughters. The DOT was a favorite "tambayan". Whatever time of the day, when I felt like having some deep or "crazy" fellowship, I knew I could always go to DOT and I was sure to see someone. If anyone was interested to study the Bible, the DOT was a sure destination.

I also remember the late night meetings at the DOT. Sure, there were some sort of undiscipline on our part to stay up so late despite the classes the following day. We didn't care. We were busy talking and praying about people we wanted to reach out to. We were dreaming of advancing God's kingdom in our campuses. I can proudly say we were probably among the most noble and most ambitious students in our campuses back then. We didn't just want the high academic grades, we wanted to save souls. Oh, how I miss the old me! I was ready to lay down my life for God's church. I would get depressed at the thought that I wouldn't be able to work full time for the church. I really, really honestly thought that it was the most awesome profession of all -- spending my entire life serving God's church.

I miss walking through the streets of TAFT Avenue and U-belt on my white uniform. I used to feel really special whenever I think that God was watching me and was proud of me. Whereas most of the students were probably out to watch movies or hang out, I was on my way to a "spiritual" appointment. I meant to study the Bible with someone, to go on a d-time, or to confess my sin. I remember how restless I would become at the consciousness that I sinned. I would call my "discipler" or a friend to confess what was bothering me.

When I was in campus, I went hungry at times. I remember waking up one morning with nothing to eat, and without money to buy food to eat. I was expecting my allowance as an intern to come during the day. But, that morning, I didn't have food to eat. There was a bakery by the dorm that sold pandesal for P 1.50. This was "gooood" pandesal and I figured if I could buy two of them, I'll be satisfied. I frantically searched my cabinet for coins I might have dropped or left. My collection came to
P 2.75. I only needed P0.25 more to buy my pandesal. I went down on my knees and looked under my bed. Low and behold, there was the coin I was looking for. I literally cried over it and thanked God for His provision. How different my heart is right now! I live comfortably yet struggle with discontent many times.

There were very few "obese" people in the campus ministry. We were used to walking long distances. Reasons range from "walang pera", nagpeprayer-walk, or nagpafollow-up. I did walk from Taft Avenue to Mendiola before. I did it because I didn't have money, but it wasn't as bad because I did spend the time talking to God.

A sister was struggling from our ministry and back then, we could not lose anyone without a fight. We then decided to "initiate" for money among the other campus disciples to raise the fare to "follow-up". I went with this sister's best friend. At the end of the travel, we realized we were at the northern most tip of the Philippines. My parents didn't even know I went there! (oooops). I didn't even know that's how far it was. The sister didn't come back with us to Manila but I know she remembers how we fought for her.

I remember how the U-belt disciples followed up on a sister who was struggling badly and wanted to leave the campus ministry. We made banners and posters and literally rallied outside her house. Posters said, "We love you sis!", "We miss you sis". We had our battle plan too. A couple of disciples would read scriptures to her, others would sing for her, and the rest will pray for her. Sad to say, this sister decided to leave as well. But, I doubt if she ever received any other outpour of love as intensely as she had that day.

Oh, and who can forget the romantic and creative ways of "going steady dating"? Those "kilig" moments, with all the spectacles that go with it? Heaven...I was always amazed at how creative and unique the "brothers" were in making their "SS's" (special sisters) feel special. I can make a book out of it!

Haaaaay .... *long sigh.

I miss the campus ministry. This is not even the gist of the wonderful experiences I've had. Marami pang iba. Sana mabuhay ulit and campus ministry. I feel sad for those who students who will never experience the excitement of being converted as students. Sayang...Sana ma-revive ang campus ministry.

Pag-pray natin.