From “I’m buzzing” to “I’m absolutely dreading it”, leaving home for uni can spring up a whole mix of reactions, questions and emotions…and that’s before you even arrive. The summer before can be spent grabbing those last few catch ups with home friends before you fly the nest, or even working hard to save up some cash to get you through uni (or just freshers' week) without dipping into that overdraft.

One thing I never gave much thought to though, was the opportunity that was about to unfold itself to share my faith with so many people – all in a new environment, figuring out who they are and what they stand for. It took me by surprise if I’m honest, their openness, their curiosity at me searching for a church and their questions about what I believed.

What if we hit the ground running?

What if we were already praying for those faith-sharing opportunities that will reveal themselves in September?

How would it change your house, your course, your college, if you’ve spent the summer praying for people's hearts to be ready to hear your story and most importantly the story of Jesus?

Starting uni gives us so much to think about – from that huge IKEA shop, to brushing up on cooking skills, Facebook stalking your housemates and trying to crack that reading list.

What if you placed seeking God’s will for your year at the top of your to-do-list?

I challenge you to begin your time at uni as you wish to continue, God-centred and ready for adventure. There’s no way of knowing what you’re stepping into, so don’t worry about figuring out all the details.

God knows the future, and He knows you.

Jesus, teach us to be brave this September. Please open our eyes to the opportunities ahead of us to share you boldly and invite others into relationship with you. 
Amen.