“If you knew Covid-19 was coming this year, would you still have signed up to be a Howie?”
This question was posed to me by one of my supporters a few months ago. And it’s a great question! Many of the benefits I had anticipated about jumping onto campus at Sydney Uni as a Howie this year seemed to disappear overnight; being able to meet with people, in real life, at the university, engaging with the wider campus – bumping into students with their friends on Eastern Avenue, walk up evangelism, a more clear delineation between ministry at uni and time at home.
And yet, I didn’t really have to hesitate too long considering my response. Regardless of whether or not I would have chosen to start as a Howie during a global pandemic, I’m really glad I am here!
Here are just some of the reasons.
- It’s been a hard year for everyone! For some students, they’ve faced doubts about God’s character, experienced tensions rise by being at home full time, felt disconnected or have been challenged with new ideas in their studies. As a Howie I have been able to listen to students, engage with scriptures together, help bring fresh enthusiasm when motivation is waning, and pray for them. Although the mode is different, the need and benefit of Howies remains.
- God is teaching, training and refining me in ministry skills – in that I couldn’t have foreseen or expected. God has been teaching me to trust in Him, rather than myself and my planning, which I think is an essential lesson in ministry.
- My own personal growth. How special to have time set aside each day to read and study the bible, to pray, to encourage students and be encouraged. In a tough year, I feel lucky to have had time to be nourished in my own faith, and have grown in seeing God’s goodness, and the real, tangible hope Jesus brings us.
God’s ways of shaping and growing us are above and beyond what we could ever consider or understand. I am thankful for this year and the lessons I have learnt.
Alice Tricks
Howie
