Joy Kangai
When I got the invitation to join STEM, I was not sure of what to say. My feelings oscillated from, excitement, and fear. Today, however, I acknowledge that the Lord has been with me since the first day when I arrived in KU. I have had a progressive journey of learning, adjusting, and personal growth, which am grateful to God about. Highlights and low moments have been part of the journey. Self-discovery has happened as I journeyed through them. I have been able to grow in skills, abilities, and talents through various platforms as I served.
What a beautiful thing it has been to change nations one student at a time. The opportunities I have had to interact with the students in KU were delightful. I have enjoyed going for sleepovers and hosting them. In addition we have watched movies with students and played ligretto, phase 10, sequence, and football countlessly. These engagements opened doors to engage students in a very deeper sense as such events felt less formal and free. In addition, the bonding forums were ripe for listening and engaging biblical perspectives on several issues, studying scriptures, random but deep discussions, and evangelism.
First, I have become a better listener and mentor by interacting with students at their vulnerable points. Praise the Lord for the fulfillment and satisfaction from the one-on-ones I have had. I am more intentional and zealous about reaching out to people, now more than I have ever been. The vulnerability that we built up together with the students made it easier for us to walk and pray together. However, I must admit I often struggled with bearing the weight of others’ troubles. Some of those situations made me feel like student ministry is hard and impossible. I thank God for helping me in my unbelief and helping me understand His providence.
I have deep excitement and joy when I see the students I have walked with bearing the image of God. Truly, God is at work in their lives in a very great way. Their testimonies are clear reminders of this. Indeed, Students’ ministry in institutions of higher learning is very strategic. I am grateful that I was one of the laborers sent to His vineyard in Kenyatta University-Main Campus Christian Union.
In conclusion , I have run the race and kept the faith. But I have not attained it yet! Therefore, I beat my body and make it my slave; so that after all the diligent mentorship, I will not be disqualified for the price. Having been sharpened, equipped, and empowered, I desire to keep graciously serving people and influencing Christ-centered relationships each day.
