Chris Bean

I met with a college student for lunch today who has been a friend and someone I have hoped to influence for several years now. As we shared a meal at one of my favorite little spots near campus, I was mindful of how our conversations have deepened over the past few months. We were no longer in that awkward stage of not really knowing how to connect, what topics are safe, how far can I press, etc. The foundation has been laid for me to be able to speak encouragement and guidance into his life while asking the kinds of questions which help sort out issues, values, beliefs, etc.

This “3 x 50 Project” in which we’re engaging for the next 50 days or so will provide the prayer and financial support we need to continue ministry like this with many other students at the University of Cincinnati. Both streams of support are necessary to keep me on campus and effectively serving students. When it comes to fundraising, we are often warned against asking for prayer instead of or at the same time that we ask for financial support. Perhaps it’s easier for someone to offer prayer support rather than the monetary variety. On the other hand, to truly carry a burden of prayer for someone or some ministry can be quite a difficult challenge as well.

I am thoroughly convinced that we need both types of support, but I’d say that the primary need during this 50-day “event” is to find individuals who would answer the call to pray daily for our ministry at UC. God is truly sovereign and more than capable of providing the financial resources that will keep me on campus meeting with students. God is also the source of transformation and salvation that we’re praying to see in the lives of college students. If we have a team of people who are seeking God daily on behalf of our ministry, all these other things will certainly be added to the mix as well (Matthew 6:33, My Paraphrase).