Rudy, a junior, is reaching to out freshmen who were in his shoes two years ago!

As he arrived at Sac State to start college, Rudy (above) faced a dilemma just like many other freshmen.

“I really didn’t have any friends or family (close by).  I was really alone.  I missed my family a lot.”

Away from home for the first time, Rudy was looking for a community, a place to belong.  He said he had begun a personal relationship with Jesus when he was 10 or 11 years old, but it sadly was only a Sunday thing that didn’t affect his day-to-day life.  As he came to college, it was no guarantee that his faith would become stronger and a bigger part of his life.

“But, I found Cru,” said Rudy.  “God, through Cru, built me up even stronger.”  Rudy got involved in a bible study and found people that pursued him.  “All these people were there for me.”

Two years later, Rudy has greatly learned and grown in his faith.  Asked what he has learned since coming to college, Rudy responded:  “It’s not really about me.  We’re here to serve God.  We’re here to fulfill the Great Commission.  We’re here to reach out to people and introduce them to the gospel, make more disciples, more Christ-centered laborers.  In the end, that’s what really matters.”

Rudy wants to use the time that he has left to make an impact and leave a legacy.  “I have only two years left.  I know that I can leave something behind.”

Rudy is helping lead a freshman bible study this year, reaching out to those who were in his shoes two years ago.  “As we meet with these guys, I can feel a similar love for them as God has for each of his children.  Ashton [his freshman bible study leader at the time] was there for me when I was a freshman.  He pursued me because he had a love for freshmen.  I think that rubbed off on me.  When I look at these freshmen, I want to build community as well.”

We’re so grateful that the Lord has provided a community for Rudy, strengthened him in his faith, and given him a desire to reach out to freshmen who are currently where he was a few years ago.  Thanks for being part of this crucial and worthwhile mission!

PRAYER REQUESTS

• Please pray for our freshmen class.  We’ve been encouraged by our new students at the community colleges, but gathering at Sac State has been more difficult.
• Praise God for a good working-relationship among our staff team and between Jeff and his co-leader, Alex.
• Please pray for our family as we continue to adjust to a new stage of life, new roles, and new home.