ME TOO, Spiritual Journey Leads to Refuge

ME TOO

SPIRITUAL JOURNEY LEADS TO REFUGE

By Rachel Maack, LRCA Junior

LLast year was a time of spiritual searching for me. Lots of doubts arose in my heart. I had more questions than ever. It was isolating. I looked around and wondered if there was anyone else like me. All I was looking for was a “me too.” I wondered if I was wrong for questioning everything. Feeling like I was the only one sent me into a downward spiral. I hoped for the friendships C.S. Lewis talks about in his deeply personal autobiography documenting his journey back to faith, titled Surprised by Joy. He said this, “I notice that a man seldom mentioned what had to be his most idiosyncratic sensations without receiving from at least one (often more) of those present the reply, ‘What! Have you felt that too? I always thought I was the only one.’”

One of the places I have begun to find this community is in a small group of diverse people that I meet with weekly. We have committed to have an authentic environment and sort of safe haven amongst all of us. The group consists of Isabella Adeola, Summer Cathey, Paul Douglass, Heather Dunavan, Caroline Green, Sophie McFarland, Mason Mezel, and myself.

In many ways, our year so far has reflected a drive to create a broader environment that feels the same way. We wanted an environment where students could express what was real, and often hear a “me too.” HS Biblical Worldview Teacher Amanda Glenn and HS Spiritual Life Director Sarah Jones

One of the biggest events that has sprung out of our group was the continuation of our worship nights, retitled Refuge, and led by Sophie McFarland. Every month, over 100 hungry high school students gather for an entirely student-led night of self-reflection and worship in the community. God began to stir in the hearts of so many of us.

What ended up being the most powerful thing we ever did was pray. Watching our students pour out honest prayers over one another brought me to my knees in awe of God’s power. There was an overwhelming response: “This is exactly what we needed.” Refuge became a sanctuary of authenticity. Students got out of the classroom and learned about God in an entirely different way - one that was real and rewarding. Each month, students shared their testimonies of doubt, depression, anxiety, and hardship, and how they were able to see God through it all. There was an almost audible sigh of relief. More and more stories began to arise. Additionally, the comforting response of “me too” reflected a group that was ready to grow.

The biblical education at LRCA is one of my favorite parts about our school. This department has flourished. Every year it continues to grow. Especially throughout this past year, the focus on action-oriented education has been particularly impactful. The leadership at our school has grown to empower new students each day to live out the Truth we learn daily. The new Bible studies, morning meetings, and prayer times are just the start of a wave of renewal washing over our students. When I look around at the environment we have now, I see disciples who are eager to love, teach, and learn from one another. I see high levels of passion that overpower darkness and isolation. I see redeemed people who aren’t afraid to admit their struggles. Maybe beyond all of that, I see a unified and compassionate front, often saying to one another with honesty, “me too.” God has sparked a flame bound to spread. And, I’m beyond excited to watch it grow!

Scan here to watch Rachel Maack and her family's beautiful story of spiritual growth and abiding love.

Refuge is defined as shelter or protection from danger or distress. Additionally, taking refuge in God means we can find ultimate safety in Him.