Over the last few months I’ve been surrounded by people generally much younger than me! Most are students or staff in one of the many University of the Nations’ courses here in Kona. A common thread is a deepening desire to know the Lord, to help others know him… and to sense God’s calling in life. I’m moved to see the focus on worship, prayer, mission, and Scripture. Even more so to see people seeking to “pray through” in their lives toward a closer walk with God, his character, and his purposes. It’s inspiring. This reflection touches the University’s enthusiastic prayer life… especially in their regular worship settings.
Often, during heartfelt worship songs, students break into small groups and pray for one another. They share a huge variety of personal, family, ministry, and academic concerns. Most want to follow the Lord with a sense of purpose and passion. They lean into prayer.
Prayer flows out of worship as they sing. Worship leaders often spend an hour or more with songs and brief messages for the hundreds of students. There is an incredible level of participation, of “entering into” the focus of the songs. Some of the lyrics are familiar for those of my generation - many newer songs written by the talented leaders are like new wine in new wineskins. Many focus on the beauty of God and the joy of sharing Good News among all the nations.
Seniors encourage and pray for the next generation one on one. Most of these senior leaders have been in a similar place. They listen with understanding, pray with a sense of purpose, and encourage with warm smiles and hugs. Those in the next generation soak it up.
And, wonderfully, the next generation prays for their seniors. This is not unusual. It’s not isolated. Prayer seems to naturally, or “super-naturally,” flow across generational lines. There is a familial sense, a powerful sense, of divine presence shared among friends, peers, family.
Connections begin with individuals looking up in their faith. Christ-centered lyrics and reflection draw them close to God. Then they consider one another and the needs of the world around them. Barriers to “nearness” are intentionally moved to the sidelines. Drawing close to God through worship and prayer is valued, prioritized.
The end result looks like care, understanding, concern, encouragement, love. Obviously, there’s a ton of “messy humanity” in this mass of students. But it feels like “family" being shaped by shared values and love. The Scripture admonishes us to return to our first love. Entering into this “space” with the YWAM family here encourages me to ponder these things….