Belmont University Freshman First 40 Days Prayer Devotional

2017

Freshman First 40 D AY S

A DEVOTIONAL TO HELP YOU FIND GOD I N Y O U R N E W C O M M U N I T Y.

Love God. Love People.

Belmont University X University Ministries

Freshman First 40 Programming CHAPEL

CHAPEL

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m. members of the Belmont community gather together for worship in the chapel (located in the Janet Ayers Academic Center). During this time, we sing, pray, meditate and reflect on God’s word together.

S P I R I T U A L L I F E A S S I S TA N T S Spiritual Life Assistants (SLAs) are available in every freshman residence hall to help foster community, create space to think about your faith and simply to serve you during your first year of college.

SLA

PLUNGE Our fall break mission trip for freshmen—students experience the opportunity to plunge into service, reflection and education in urban locations throughout the Southeast and Midwest. Working with local organizations, we explore what God is up to in the world and discern how we might be called to respond in our own lives.

INTO.NASHVILLE INTO.NASHVILLE

A local 24-hour immersion in service, reflection and education that includes convocation credit and happens on Friday night through Saturday throughout the school year. Along with peers in their residence halls and led by their SLAs, first-year students have the opportunity to explore the diverse neighborhoods and communities of Nashville to discover what God is doing, and how we might be called to love our neighbors.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND OTHER UM PROGRAMS, VISIT BELMONT.EDU/UNIVERSITYMINISTRIES

Fall 2017 WELCOME TO BELMONT! It is our sincere hope and prayer that as you begin this new season of your life and become a member of the Belmont community, you will seek every opportunity to explore and nurture your faith in God. The years that you will spend in college will be among the most formative of your life. As you transition into this community, you do so without many of the connections and comforts that you had back home. This will be challenging for you, and there will be times that you will have to take steps, or even leaps, of faith.

As a way of helping you find your way and transition well into our community, we have compiled this 40-day devotional guide for you. There is nothing magical within these pages, just the sincere thoughts, seasoned advice and honest prayers of Belmont faculty, staff and students who want to help find your place within the Belmont community.

This guide has instructions for daily devotions during the first weeks of your transition. You are encouraged to read the scripture passages and devotional thoughts provided and spend time in prayer each day. In these moments, it is my prayer that you will hear the voice of God speaking into your life—that in the midst of challenges, you will find hope; that in the midst of questions, you will find a God that walks beside you.

As you spend time each day reflecting on these words of scripture and words of encouragement and challenge from members of the Belmont community—may you grow in your love for God and your love for your neighbor.

Grace and peace, R EV. HEATHER GER BSC H DAU G HER T Y University Minister, Office of University Ministries

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Guide to Daily Prayer

O P E N I N G P R AY E R Gracious God,

Help me to remember that it is you who walks beside me on this journey.

Remind me today of your love and faithfulness, that I would not grow weary or become overwhelmed, but would instead trust in you each step along the way.

In the name of Jesus I pray. AMEN

SCRIPTURE LESSONS Read and reflect on the assigned scripture for the day.

D A I LY M E D I TAT I O N Read the assigned devotional for the day.

P R AY E R S O F P E T I T I O N As you close your time in prayer each day, here are some suggestions of how you can pray.

• Pray that you would know of God’s presence with you in the midst of all that you are facing.

• Pray for your fellow first-year students who might be struggling as they transition into this new community.

• Pray for Belmont, that God would be at work on our campus this year and that we would experience true

peace and community together.

• Pray for your new neighbors—here on campus, in Nashville and around the world. Pray that God would give

you a vision of what it means to be a true neighbor in each of these places.

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Week One

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D AY 1 — FA I T H Exodus 33:14 | Psalm 62:1–2 | Romans 8:28 Faith. It’s a tricky word. At this point in your journey, there are a lot of places that you can be. You may not know what you believe or if you have a faith. You may have a strong faith. You may have been disappointed by your community of faith back home. You may be questioning your faith now that you are on your own for the first time.

You may have already decided that faith, that Christianity, isn’t for you.

All of us come to college from different places. As you begin your time at Belmont, I want to challenge you and I want to encourage you. First, I want to challenge you to take time to think about your faith. Don’t just keep doing the same old thing without taking time to really consider what you believe and why. As your view of the world expands and you are thinking about all kinds of things in a new way, think about how your faith will impact your life.

Think about God’s work in the world and how that might have an impact on who you are called to be. Ask hard questions, find wise friends and mentors, and don’t be afraid to allow faith to shape who you are becoming.

I also want to encourage you. When we read today’s scripture passages, we get the picture of a God who is always with us.

“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” – Exodus 33:14 “Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” – Psalm 62:1-2 Hold onto these assurances, these promises of God’s presence with you—in good times and in bad, when you make wise decisions and when you don’t, when you think that you know all the answers and when you have nothing but questions. God is faithful, God will be with you—you can put your faith and trust in that.

REV. HEATHER GER BSC H DAU G HER T Y University Minister, Office of University Ministries

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D AY 2 — C O M M U N I T Y Proverbs 18:24 | John 17:23 | 1 Peter 4:9 Community is a feeling, sanctuary, resting place, recalibration center and important provider of reassurance in all humans’ lives. Learning how to find new communities while being stripped from past identities in the already life changing transition that is coming to college, is a process accompanied by many growing pains. When coming to college, reestablishing this foundation causes great discomfort, but is also filled with great potential. Finding healthy communities, and defining your role within them, is an important way to find meaning and purpose in this time of discovery.

In my Belmont journey, I have come to realize the importance of community, and even more so, an intentional and inclusive community. Seeking out authentic relationships as well as being vulnerable enough to allow others to pour into you is a testimony of a healthy and beneficial community. Communities that welcome you with open arms regardless of baggage, and encourage your unapologetic sense of self, and embody inclusivity will be beacons of light in your journey here. Thinking back to making friends and realizing how much I wanted to be included and intentionally sought after, is comparable to that of God’s never ceasing pursuit of our hearts. His great, pure love that craves authenticity and involvement of all His people in His kingdom.

As we think about community, it is also important to remember that we should never compare our walks to those of others. Some individuals find community immediately as they enter the college life, and others require patience and trust in divine timing. Neither of these experiences is better than the other, only different. Comparing ourselves to the stories of others only sets us up for failure in our own story. As is stated in Romans 12:4-5, “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” In this, we see the diverse beauty of community and the celebration of uniqueness in individuality. Moving forward in your college career, I encourage you to discover what part of the body of Christ you have been made to exemplify in this community, whether that be the feet, hands, arms, heart, mind, ears, rib cage, lungs, backbone or anything else. These parts are all important to the survival of humans as is the communities we thrive in.

I wish you the best of luck in this time of transition and challenge you to grow intentionally into your true person throughout the inclusivity of communities surrounding you. You are important, and you are loved.

REID EDINGTON Senior, Music Therapy Major Orientation Council · 5 ·

D AY 3 — S E R V I C E I Samuel 12:24 | Matthew 20:28 | I Peter 4:10–11 “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.

To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever.” – 1 Peter 4:10-11 Did you know that each of us is uniquely gifted? Many of us struggle to understand and claim the talents and abilities God has given us. Some people, well aware of their abilities, believe they have the right to use their abilities as they please. Others feel that they have no special talents at all. Peter addresses all people in these verses. He specifically directs us to speak the words of God and strive to serve boldly. To do this, you must accept your gifts and use them. Are you a strong leader, a good teacher? Are you faithful, merciful, generous, kind? Do you seek ways to help others through service? Our talents were not granted to us for our own exclusive enjoyment. We are called to use our gifts and abilities to serve others.

How is God praised when we use our gifts and abilities? When we use them, as He directs, to help others, they will see Jesus in us and praise Him for the help they received. In this Belmont community of learning and service, there are numerous opportunities for us to serve together in the name of Jesus. Invite a new friend to join you in praising God by putting your gifts to work and helping people in need.

DEBBIE SP RA N G Director of Parent and Family Programs, Office of Development and Alumni Relations

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D AY 4 — V O C AT I O N Genesis 2:15 | Proverbs 12:1 | Colossians 3:23 Who’s the Boss?

Beloved, Colossians 3:23 reminds us that when we work, God should be our boss. Our managers, mentors, colleagues and even our families can all influence the way we do our jobs. Sometimes comparing ourselves to other people can affect the way we work. But Colossians encourages us to remember that God can impact our vocations in a wonderful way.

God shows us how faithful He is to those who follow Him. This text reminds us that whenever we work and give our best to the Lord, He will become a part of whatever we do. And when God becomes part of our efforts, that work can now be used for so many things: His will, our character development and for the betterment of those around us.

If all of us were to practice using our best efforts (the Amplified version of the Bible reads working “from the soul”) and refocus beyond the accomplishments of others (the New International Version of the Bible reads “human masters”) we could reach a newer, higher level of vocation. Our efforts would become part of our character and not just a chore. With this in mind, we get to discover more about who we are while we pursue our vocations.

Christ’s vocation was the cross. And if we used an earthly measuring stick, He was too perfect to die a sinner’s death the way He did. But since God’s will was the driving force behind this plan of salvation, Christ didn’t stay dead for very long; and as a result humanity is redeemed. So whenever I recognize that my efforts are small, I think of how Jesus, draped in humanity, gave His all, and got His job done.

No matter who is reading this, at whatever stage in your life: if you decide today that your vocational efforts will be bookended by God’s will, then you’ll always find peace in knowing that your work cannot be admonished or diminished by any earthly thing. Our God, His will and all works done in His name are everlasting. What a wonderful promise!

DR. N A DI BISHO P Bridges to Belmont Coordinator

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D AY 5 — T R A N S I T I O N Joshua 1:9 | Psalm 18:2 When Moses died, God appointed Joshua to step up and lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. This was a significant moment of transition for Joshua, as he was heading into exciting, but new and unfamiliar lands, while taking on more responsibility than ever before. To try to reduce some of Joshua’s uncertainty and stress about taking on this new task, the Lord said to him, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for [I] will be with you wherever you go” (Josh. 1:9). As God instructed Joshua and assured him of the promise, He said more than three times “be strong and courageous.” God knew that while Joshua and the Israelites would encounter trials, He would be right there with them all along the way. He reminded Joshua that all he has to do as he makes this important transition in his life is “be careful to obey the law…keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything in it,” and He would take care of the rest (Josh. 1:7-8).

Just as God equipped Joshua to lead the Israelites and promised to stay by his side every step of the way, so too has God equipped you and I with the tools to take on big transitions in our lives. Remember to cling to God’s word, and to the words of wisdom from teachers, family members, and friends that have gotten you this far. Keep in mind the things that God has already promised you about your future, or seek his wisdom on what those promises could be if you haven’t discovered them yet. Most importantly, know that you cannot succeed in this moment of transition in your own strength, and luckily, you don’t have to! God wants to be your strength, joy, source of wisdom and knowledge, and provider as you go through this time, and always. In Psalm 18:2, David sings, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer…in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” God was, is, and always will be these things for Joshua, for David, and for you, too. So be excited for this time of transition, and lean into God, the rock, as your strength!

KAY LA YOUNG Senior, Motion Pictures Major Black Student Association President

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D AY 6 — FA I T H Deuteronomy 33:27 | Psalm 103:2–5 | Romans 8:31b, 35, 37–39 During a recent study abroad trip to the Middle East, I was able to spend a little time in Palestine. Political opinions aside for a moment, the people living there that I got to meet had experienced horrors that I could never imagine.

They had every right to be broken, hopeless, faithless, demoralized. I expected them to be, and I wouldn’t have judged them for it. What I found, though, were some of the most faithful and hopeful people I have ever met. They had this all-surpassing joy that can only come from faith. Faith in humanity, faith in the future, faith in positive possibilities, faith in God. What is faith? It’s holding your head above the water, even when it feels easier to stop fighting and just let yourself drown. It’s choosing to move forward, not knowing for sure whether or not things will get better anytime soon, but knowing that they definitely won’t if you just give up. Through God, God’s promises and God’s power, we are more than conquerors. That means that not only do we have the power to move beyond the thing that is trying to suck out all our faith and hope, but we can rise up out of the darkness stronger than ever before, and maybe even share a little bit of the victory with someone who needs it.

Practically, though, how can we accomplish this rising up? One thing that everyone I met in Palestine had in common was their drive to do everything they could to contribute to their cause and to their community. They all were doing something every single day to help their neighbors, and they found the strength to keep their faith in serving and encouraging each other. They understood that faith cannot thrive without community, and in lifting up their neighbors, they were able to lift themselves up, too. Their faith and hope grow stronger every day because they don’t battle their giants alone.

What is it that is trying to keep you down today? What can you do to shift your mindset away from faithlessness and hopelessness and toward faith and hope? What would be the benefits in doing so? Mark Twain says that the best way to cheer yourself up is to cheer up someone else. Is there someone in your life who would be encouraged by your new “more than a conqueror” mindset?

MAX IN E BOULDI N Senior, Religion and the Arts Major, Music Business Minor SLA Mentor

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D AY 7 — C O M M U N I T Y Proverbs 22:24–25 | Galatians 6:2, 10 | 1 John 1:7 I have a lot of baseball caps. I have a cap from the World Cup in South Africa, one from the college I attended, several Belmont caps, a St. Louis Browns cap, Predators caps, a Titans cap and a couple stacks of St. Louis Cardinals caps.

I have 22 St. Louis Cardinals caps.

As a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan my Cardinals caps are a way I identify with the team. I have a reproduction WWI era cap, a cap from the post WWII era, Sunday caps, World Series caps, classic red caps, white caps and even a green St. Patrick’s Day cap. Maybe you do not share my commitment to St. Louis Cardinals caps. Maybe you’re one of those Yankees fans, or a Red Sox fan, or even a Cubs fan. Maybe you are not even a baseball fan but you like wearing Belmont gear or some other sports team gear or Star Wars T-shirts or the T-shirts from a favorite band. Maybe you do not wear any clothing that identifies you with a team or a group of people, but we all have communities of one kind or another that help give us identity.

A really cool thing about your first 40 days at college is the opportunity it gives to you to reinvent yourself or establish yourself as you make new communities. You’ll discover new friends as well as new places to hang out to make new friends. Before you know it, your life will be redefined by new relationships and new communities.

Our Scriptures for today give us some guidance in the ways we make new relationships and form new communities.

Proverbs 22:24-25 reminds us that hanging out with hot headed people means we’ll soon be acting that way ourselves.

More simply, we tend to act like the people we hang out with. Choose wisely.

The Galatians text reminds us that new communities mean people to help and to help us. We cannot survive life without community and friends to help along the way.

1 John 1:7 reminds us that the best community of all is the community that walks with Jesus.

Which community will you choose? How will you make new friends in these first 40 days of the rest of your life?

Who will be the people to help you build your life?

DA RRELL GWA LT N EY Dean, College of Theology and Christian Ministry H. Franklin Paschall Chair of Biblical Studies and Preaching · 10 ·

Week Two

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D AY 8 — S E R V I C E Luke 6:27-45 | Ephesians 2:10 | Phillipians 2:1-11 What comes to mind when you think of the word service? Often I think of something tangible I do to meet the need of another person. I might help someone with their yard work or serve food at a local homeless shelter. I think this idea of service is certainly helpful, but the scripture passages from today suggest service is something much more comprehensive, and frankly much more difficult, than a random act of kindness.

I think service is much more about the posture with which we live our lives than the specific things we do for one another. In the teaching we read today, Christ encourages us not just to love in a way that is easy and convenient.

Rather He challenges us to love everybody, even those we deem as enemies. This requires a radical transformation of our entire being, only possible through the grace that Christ so freely offers. One does not need to be transformed to serve in a soup kitchen, but it does require inner transformation to humbly demonstrate kindness and patience to an obnoxious roommate.

So my challenge to you is this. Absolutely seek out and engage in the wonderful service opportunities available at Belmont, but do not stop there. Instead I challenge you to pursue the way of Jesus Christ, the way of humility and love. No matter how awkward your roommate is or how rude your lab partner may be, take the hard road and seek to love as Christ loves us. The way of humility and love is certainly not easy and rarely comes natural to any of us.

However, through the redemptive love of Christ and transforming work of the Holy Spirit even the most selfish of us can learn to love in a way that reflects the love of God. I hope that through the transforming love of God you might come to more fully embrace the humility of Christ and see service as so much more than something you do.

JOSH RIEDEL Assistant Director of Spiritual Formation

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D AY 9 — V O C AT I O N Deuteronomy 15:10 | Proverbs 22:26, 27, 29 The first time you walk into the Caf, you may look around and not know where to sit. When your suitemates are having band practice the night before your big test, you may roam campus looking for a new study spot. Before college, you were probably often told what to do. You were told what classes to take, how late you could stay out, etc. College is the time to do whatever YOU want. It is a time to discover who you are, the person that God made you to be. You’ll want to do everything, sign up for every club, go to every event on and off campus you hear about. Go ahead! Try out everything you want! But sooner or later, you’ll find the things that make you truly happy, the things that you are good at, the things that will make your college experience your own. You will probably change your major once, twice, maybe even five times. It’s okay, don’t be afraid to do so, pretty much everyone does. You’ll find the classes that you actually enjoy going to, and the department that feels like home. You will find the major and career path that you were meant for.

These four (or more) years will be fun, but they will also come with their own challenges. Fortunately, God will not put any obstacle in your way that He has not prepared you for or will not help you with. The Deuteronomy verse reminds us that when we give to God, He will give back to us. God has so many great plans for you, and life is all about trusting in the plans. He is going to be there for you every step of the way this year, and for the rest of your life, helping to lead you in the right direction.

You just have to listen to Him and let Him lead you. God has given you all the talents you need, you just need figure out what they are, and don’t be afraid to use them!

And guess what? You will not be on this journey alone! God will send people into your life to help you along the way.

Professors, friends, the student that lives across the hall from you. Some people will pop into your life for a semester, and some will still be around after you graduate.

Pray that you will see what God wants you to do. Pray that He will lead you in right the direction. Pray for God’s guidance following the path He has created for you. Pray that you will trust the plan that He has for you.

You’ll find your table at the Caf and be wide eyed when someone else sits there. You’ll find that spot at the library or out on the lawn that just makes studying so easy for you. You’ll find that coffee shop that you’ll go to every MWF before class, the one where the barista knows what to make you as soon as you walk in the door. You’ll find the major that will lead you into a career that you’re excited about, the one that doesn’t feel like work. You’ll find the friends who will stay up with you until 3 o’clock in the morning doing homework and talking about anything, the ones who you know will be around forever. You’ll make this new place your new home.

AMANDA UN TERR EI N ER Senior, Public Relations Major SLA Mentor

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D AY 1 0 — T R A N S I T I O N Genesis 12:1–3 | Psalm 62:6 | James 1:17 Psalm 62:6 says, “He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.” At times I have found that power of scripture through what is not being said. Put another way, do you find yourself assuming a message that is not really there? This verse does not suggest that when we are shaken, we will survive with God’s help. It says we will not be shaken. Period.

Stop for a moment and consider the subtle yet profound implication. A well-constructed building may feel the force of high winds during a storm, but still not sway (or be shaken.) Feeling the external pressures of college and all that comes with this stage of life should be expected. But being shaken needn’t be the automatic result of life’s unexpected turns.

There is a catch…

Psalm 62:6 begins with the assertion that when you acknowledge God as your rock and your salvation, you will not be shaken. It is the God-designed consequence (or better put, benefit!) of a total surrender to Him. There is a perfect order in God’s plan. In the business world, we might think of this as advance preparation for what may come ahead.

And even in our daily routine, we take proactive steps all the time: we wear a seat belt, we look before we cross the road and so on. We do this because we understand the natural order of events.

If we make a practice of re-reading a scripture verse (even when the message seems quite obvious), we may find that subtleties of God’s word only magnifies the message. Expect to feel the winds of life’s challenges. But if you will trust in Him, these winds needn’t cause you to be shaken. And that’s great news.

DAVID MEE Associate Provost and Dean of Enrollment Services

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D AY 1 1 — FA I T H Psalm 9:9–10 | Proverbs 3:5–6 | 2 Corinthians 12:9 There will be times in your life when things will get tough but you must not lose hope. They say God gives His toughest battles to His strongest soldiers. I also know He won’t give us anything we can’t handle. Coming to college can be hard on a few but I assure you Belmont is the place to be! Coming to Belmont I can honestly say I FOUND myself. It took me a while to figure out who I am, how strong my faith was and what I wanted to do is this life, but now I think I’m almost there. There have been times when I just felt like giving up, quitting school, quitting my job and just finding something new to do in life. I now know that would have not been the right move for me. During my times of struggles and weakness, I had to realize that God wasn’t punishing me but only pushing me to my full potential. He’s been here all along and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. We as believers just must believe and keep our faith strong.

I think of all the times things didn’t go my way. It was up to me to decide what my next move would be. I could pout about the situation or I could put it in God’s hand and wait patiently. I chose the latter. Nothing is going to be immediate, but Proverb 3:5-6 lets us know that if we submit to God, he will make our paths straight and help us overcome. As you go into your freshman of college here at Belmont, never lose hope. The Lord has put you here for a reason. I hope that you too will be able to find yourself or even discover something new. Whether it be class work, extracurricular activities, home life or simply just a bad day, know that not only am I always going to be here for you, but everyone else in the Belmont community will be too. We’re a big family with a lot of faith in everything we do and I can’t wait for you to be a part of this community and see the great things God is doing here!

S HANIA JONES Junior, Music Business & Business Management Double Major President, Student Government Association

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D AY 1 2 — C O M M U N I T Y Proverbs 27:17 | James 4:11 | Colossians 3:16 In the Peanuts comic strip, Linus once admitted, “I love humanity. It’s people I can’t stand.” Most of us say that we love community, but we know from experience that the closer you get to others, the more the sparks can fly. In the Old Testament, Proverbs 27:17, it says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” The outcome sounds ideal: being sharp and useful. But the process of sharpening means there will be a lot of friction and heat and noise!

It would be easy to avoid the friction of relationships and hot topics of discussion by simply keeping to oneself. The chance to interact in truly meaningful ways with roommates and classmates and members of the wider campus community always entails risk. In the hyper-connected world of social media, it is quite easy to stay linked with multitudes of people we know superficially, instead of entering into deep, new relationships with those who are really here. You may have a host of friends on Facebook and in the worlds of Instagram and Twitter and texting, but may also find that being connected 24/7 offers much less than being part of a genuine, in-person community.

The answer to superficial relationships is to make intentional efforts to find real community. In one of the earliest letters to some of the very first Christians, the Apostle Paul writes that we are “members of one body.” We are not designed by God to be disconnected individuals. Spiritual Life Assistants, student organizations and all those new people on your hall are eager to make connections.

Intentionally reaching out and showing up to connect with others is the key first step to building relationships, and the first-semester opportunities are endless.

We are created to live in mutually self-giving relationships with others—relationships that move from mere selfexpression and self-fulfillment toward mutual love. Those of us who have been at Belmont a long time have discovered that this happens most fully when we “let the message of Christ dwell among you richly” (Colossians 3:16). Your time at Belmont is the chance to find authentic community, rooted and grounded in the love of God and of others.

DR. TODD LA KE Vice President of Spiritual Development

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D AY 1 3 — S E R V I C E Proverbs 11:25 | Matthew 25:35–40 | Galatians 6:2 It was easy, when I began college at Belmont, to start to think that maybe life could be all about me. I had an amazing TT leader, great RAs (I mean it was Pembroke!) and the best SLAs I could imagine. All these people seemed intent on serving me and empowering me and I began to think that was the job of everyone around me. This is the tendency of college for many I think. We buy into the idea in college that we should look out for ourselves first because it is in caring for ourselves that we live our lives to the fullest. While it is important to take care of our own needs, that is not where we find the truest lives for ourselves.

Jesus lived a life of looking out for the good of others, no matter what that meant. He sought out opportunities to serve and they were often at his own expense. He knew, as today’s Proverb would suggest, that many of the most valuable and rewarding things in life come from serving others. It is, ironically, in keeping our lives that we lose them and in losing them that we gain life. Or, as C. S. Lewis has said, “Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.” So I would encourage you to love yourself empty today—to not scramble to get your own fill, but rather find yourself satisfied in serving others first. That is seriously how it works in God’s economy!

When we seek to serve others, even when it seems like we are getting a bad deal, we find surprising rewards. We also know that when we serve others we are serving Jesus (Matthew 25:35-40) and so we should bask in that honor.

After all, Jesus gave up his own will and desires to die a miserable death for people who hated him. Who will you serve today who couldn’t give you back anything in return? These are the most precious opportunities.

TAY LOR BROWN Junior, Church Leadership and Administration Orientation Council, SLA

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D AY 1 4 — V O C AT I O N Exodus 12:12 | Proverbs 12:11 | Matthew 28:1–10 “So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.”

– Matthew 28:8 (NIV) Reflecting back on my college experience, I can’t think of a phrase that more accurately describes my feelings at both the beginning of my freshman year and the end of my senior year than “afraid yet filled with joy,” from the above verse. At both points in my life, I recognized that I was entering a new chapter, and not knowing what to expect left me nervous, yet excited for the future. At the beginning of college, I wondered if I would like my major and at the end, I wondered how I could use my degree to not only find a job, but to do work I found meaningful and that would be of service to others. It can be nerve-racking not being able to see how the future will unfold, but luckily Jesus reassures us, “Do not be afraid” (Matthew 28:10). He has a plan greater than we can even imagine.

I look back on my years in college and am so grateful for the life lessons and personal growth I experienced, even though I didn’t recognize that those things were happening at the time. In hindsight, I can see how all of the seemingly unrelated pieces—the classes I took in my major that led me to become a lifelong learner, the people I met who became dear friends and mentors, the opportunities I said “yes” to that allowed me to gain skills and experience I could apply in my chosen field—fit together to help me to understand and pursue my vocation. I truly love working in higher education and know I am carrying out God’s work by empowering students like you to identify and pursue your own calling in this life.

My hope for you is that you view this time at Belmont as a gift and use it as an opportunity. Proverbs 12:11 tells us “Those who work their land will have abundant food.” Make the most of your time here in order to identify and pursue your passions and meet the needs of the world. Learn all that you can about your chosen field of study. Consider how you can use your God-given talents and gifts to make a difference in the lives of those around you. Try out careers through volunteering, interning and talking to individuals who have interesting jobs. Turn to the community around you for support, guidance and encouragement. Keep an open heart and mind and God’s plan will reveal itself to you in due time.

RACHEL WALDE N Assistant Director, Office of Career & Professional Development

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Week Three

· 19 ·

D AY 1 5 — T R A N S I T I O N Genesis 46:3–4 | Matthew 11:28 | James 1:7 As we enter a new semester, a new beginning, maybe you are experiencing moments of transitional chaos. You know, the moments when you are trying to make sense of it all and regain a sense of control over the story that is unfolding in your life.

In Matthew, Jesus offers a way to navigate this world. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

Jesus offers a way of living marked by a lightness. It is a lightness where you breathe in and breathe out and remember the gift of living. It is a lightness that lets go of the comparison games and the need to be perfect.

It is a lightness that comforts the spirit and brings peace to the soul.

Three verses earlier, Jesus talks about children. “I thank you Father that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to the little children” (Matthew 11:25). There is a freedom present in children.

There is a joy, and playfulness, and a sense of security. This childlike way celebrates the day and lets mom and dad do the heavy lifting for the future. It is almost as if children know they are loved and cared for—and in that knowledge—they let go and simply savor life.

As we start the unknown of the academic year, maybe we can approach this season with a little childlike lightness.

Maybe we, even as educated adults, don’t have to have everything figured out. Maybe we don’t need to go through this world dragging the weight (the yoke) of our guilt or shame or strivings or comparisons or what-ifs. Maybe there is a lighter way—a way marked by joy and peace and grace. Jesus doesn’t promise this way will be easy, but He does say it will provide rest for our souls. So today, as we hear the words of Jesus, may we have the courage to embrace His lightness as we navigate this world.

RYA N HOLT Director, New Student Orientation Programs

· 20 ·

D AY 1 6 — FA I T H Psalm 46: 1–3 | John 15:4–5, 7–10 | James 1:5–6 The first year of college can be disconcerting. Many of the courses we take challenge things we’ve known—or thought we’ve known—for our whole lives, and it’s not uncommon for first year students to find themselves doubting a great deal about themselves and they world they live in. Combine this with new found freedom to shape and arrange their daily lives as they wish, and it’s no surprise that many students struggle to understand the role of faith in their college lives.

At first glance, the passage from James would seem to condemn such doubting. But James is not concerned with the kinds of doubts that first year students often encounter—doubts related to their sense of knowledge of the world. Rather, James is concerned with a different kind of doubt—doubt related to the pursuit of wisdom. This is not to suggest that wisdom and knowledge are not related, for they certainly are. But it is to suggest that even as we encounter doubts about what we know about the world, we can boldly pursue the wisdom to act faithfully in the world. Later in the epistle, James makes this explicit: “Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of wisdom…[that is] peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits.”

It’s these things that James exhorts us to pray for, full of confidence that God desires for us to live with such wisdom.

Our academic knowledge is of prime importance during college, and we tend to attach positive and practical value to it inasmuch as it prepares us for a career. Thus, our doubts about what we know or don’t know can seem like mere distractions from what is most important—getting a job.

But it is also true that our doubts can open us up to the possibility of wisdom, which as James reminds us, is imminently practical. Hearing the perspectives of those different than us, learning things that challenge our assumptions, being open to new facts and ideas—these are things that both require but also often produce such things as gentleness, peaceableness, mercy and good fruits.

So, when we pray, we don’t pray to know the answers. Rather, we pray to glean the wisdom necessary for our world here at Belmont and after. We pray, in other words, for the wisdom to live a good life, and as James reminds us, we should definitely have faith in God’s provision of that.

MI CA H WEEDMAN Director of Missions and Outreach

· 21 ·

D AY 1 7 — C O M M U N I T Y Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 | Proverbs 12:26 | 1 Thessalonians 5:15 “Love one another the way I loved you” – John 15:12 Community is one of those fun buzz words we hear in Christian circles all the time, and a word that was thrown around a lot when I decided to come to Belmont. You hear things like “Welcome into the Belmont Community,” or you’re told that college is great once you “find your community.” I remember being annoyed by the cliché, but the funny thing about clichés is that more often than not they turn out to be true.

Each of my favorite memories have one thing in common: they were experienced with a community of people around me; people who knew the most intimate, personal parts of me and my story (both the good and not so good chapters).

Scripture tells us in Ecclesiastes 4 that “It’s better to have a partner than go alone. Share the work, share the wealth.

And if one falls down, the other helps…By yourself you’re unprotected, but with a friend you can face the worst.” That’s what intentional community looks like. We catch glimpses of it every time we let our guard down and share the beautiful, messy bits of our lives that don’t often see the light of day. Jesus shows up in the moments when we let the unedited version of ourselves be truly seen by the people we share our lives with.

Believe me when I say that you will find your tribe here in the Belmont community! However, that doesn’t happen overnight. It takes putting yourself out there even when it’s intimidating to introduce yourself to someone new or to sign up for a new organization on campus. It takes showing up in people’s lives when it’s not convenient or easy. Rest in the knowledge that we serve a Good Father who wants the best for us, and know that you are going to find people who will walk alongside you as you begin this new journey in your life.

“There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”

JA MES STIN N ET T Junior, Finance Major Orientation Council

· 22 ·

D AY 1 8 — S E R V I C E Proverbs 19:17 | John 13:12–14 | James 2:14–17 A forerunner is someone who comes before you and sets an example for you to follow, someone who shows you how it’s done. Jesus was our forerunner in many ways and serving was His forte.

Our heavenly calling is to serve. God intends to use His sons & daughters as conduits to express His powerful grace to the world. Our skills, talents and abilities are not meant for us, to be used on and for ourselves, but used for the good of others. Jesus’s call, “Follow me,” is a call to follow in his footsteps. Jesus came to serve and he invites us alongside of Him. In the heart of God, serving others is the pathway to our true freedom and freedom of the soul is the one thing every human heart longs for. To be free from addictions, wrong motivations, lying, fear—among all the many enslavements of this planet—is to live and experience the kingdom of heaven on earth.

Jesus purchased our freedom through an extreme servanthood, submission to a brutal death by crucifixion. He served us through his love to empower us to serve others through the same heavenly love. Our liberation from the tyranny of sin enables us to love. We are free. Now we can love and serve through the power of the Cross, following in His footsteps.

Serving flows naturally from a ransomed heart. The motivation of love and gratitude moves us to give others what’s been given to us.

ANGIE BRYA N T Assistant Dean of Students

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D AY 1 9 — V O C AT I O N Exodus 3:1–12 | Proverbs 6:6 | Ephesians 4:1–13 The Apostle Paul wrote that the Christians in Ephesus should walk in a manner worthy of their calling. But what does it mean for a Christian to walk in such a way? We know from other verses in the Bible that we should walk by faith, we should walk in love, we should walk in truth, we should walk according to God’s commandments and we should walk in newness of life.

Wow! Some of that sounds like pretty hard work. The good news is that God has given us what we need to figure out how to walk and even where to walk, and it is not as impossible as it sounds. In fact, we can trust in God for all of this.

The LORD makes firm the steps of those who delight in Him (Psalm 37:23), He works in us so we can follow His ways (Philippians 2:13) and He leads us on paths of righteousness for His name’s sake (Psalm 23:3).

Do you wonder what your college experience has in store for you? There is no need to be anxious. The God who created the world and everything in it, the God who gave up His own Son on the cross as our Savior—that God also loves you and is interested in giving you the desires of your heart. He has a path for you to follow, and you can count on God for His faithfulness in showing you the way.

During each day, walk with newness of life, looking to Jesus, the author and perfector of your faith, and over time, sometimes slowly and sometimes quickly, you will find a career or profession that suits you perfectly and one that is also worthy of the calling to which you have been called.

DR. BRYCE SULL I VA N Dean, College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

· 24 ·

D AY 2 0 — T R A N S I T I O N Exodus 12:40–42 | 1 Samuel 2:2 | Psalm 31:3 Often in life we reach great milestones definitive of the skill sets we have, gifts we are anointed with or assistance we’ve been given. It sometimes becomes very easy to marginalize the value of the experience(s) in which has shaped our lives. If you think about it, you or someone you know has been involved in situations that could have been in the reverse—but it happened in your favor. There was the ability to have acquired the knowledge to pass the AP exam when you may not have prepared your best. There was scoring the winning points in an athletic contest when maybe the opponent appeared to be far superior. There are times when one desires to be self-absorbed, but you are overcome with a servant’s heart in the community and that allowed for you to parlay your experience into a service scholarship. In all of these scenarios it is important to recognize your special abilities, but more important is to recognize who provided you with these special abilities. Throughout the Bible there is great provision from above and one of the most essential things is to offer up praise. I can think of many clichés’ about praising GOD while you are in the valley or on top of the mountain. How GOD brought you to it, so HE will bring you through it. Those are fine, but let’s think simplistically—when we as humans (think humanly, not spiritually) do things for others a little appreciation is not frowned upon. “Can I get a thank you...” The good thing for us is we serve a GOD who has our best interest at heart even when we are often times not deserving. Guess what—HE provides for us anyway.

My point as you embark upon this academic journey is that there are going to be highs and lows. The best advice I can give you is to celebrate God no matter the situation. Even when family and friends disappoint you, God’s unchanging hand will be there. You may not readily recognize the blessing and provision, but it is there. I challenge you to stand firm on the solid foundation of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. If ever there was a winning team this is the one and they have offered us an invitation to be teammates. Imagine how our team can change the world. Remain focused and enjoy this experience. #BelieveConfessLive #2020

DR. JEFFREY BU R G I N Associate Provost and Dean of Students

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D AY 2 1 — FA I T H Psalm 27:1, 3 | Proverbs 29:25 | Philippians 4:12–13 As you begin your collegiate journey you will soon realize if you haven’t already, that this phase of your life is unlike anything you have ever encountered. The rules and expectations for you have completely changed and while we all know change is good, it can also be challenging. So challenging that at times you will feel the exhilaration of this new journey and also feel how overwhelming the journey can be. In both of those instances it is essential that you have faith, faith in knowing that this is exactly where you are supposed to be. Faith that there is a divine lesson or lessons to be learned and faith that this journey will prepare you for your next phase in life.

I encourage you to let your faith remind you to hold tight to the many blessings that you have and that you are. Your faith will carry you though the many ups and downs that this journey will present to you. But know that faith will also allow you to cast your burdens on Him and have peace even in the middle of a storm. So while we will always hope for the best, we must have faith to carry us through the challenges.

As you navigate your collegiate journey remember that you are a wonderfully made child of God, who has been equipped to be successful and to manage any challenges that might come your way. Always remember to be mindful, prayerful and diligently faithful.

MARY CLARK Director, Bridges to Belmont Office of Multi-Cultural Learning & Experience

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Week Four

· 27 ·

D AY 2 2 — C O M M U N I T Y Proverbs 13:20 | 1 Corinthians 1:10 | Ephesians 5:2, 19, 30 On my own first day at Belmont, many years ago, I recall someone saying: “This is your fresh start. This is one of the few times in your life when you can reinvent yourself. Decide now you who you want that person to be.” At the time I thought that process would involve only me. What I quickly learned in that first year was who I would become was not only determined by me, but was greatly shaped by the community that I chose.

In Proverbs 13 we find two very significant words: with and become. It tells us that those we choose to walk with help determine who it is we will become. It challenges us to consider more deeply our community. Instead of simply looking for people who are like the person we are—those who like the same music, think like us politically or have the same interests—we are challenged to look for people who are like what we want to become. Want to become wise? Surround yourself with people who are wiser than you. Want to become generous? Live in community with people who regularly give of themselves freely. Want to become more like Jesus? Surround yourself with people who are seeking. This is beauty of community. It is one of the ways God allows us to explore and grow into who it is He has created us to be.

It is a tool by which we are sharpened and refined. It is a mirror that reflects to us His purpose and calling.

So as you begin this next step of your journey, you can choose. Choose to create a community of people just like you—those who help you maintain the person you are. Or you can choose to create a community of people you want to become—those who push you to be more, better, deeper. That is the kind of community Jesus calls us to—the kind that shapes and changes us and helps us to become.

What is it that you want to become? Who are the people around you who reflect that? How will you allow God to use them in your community this year at Belmont?

CHRISTY RIDINGS Associate University Minister & Director of Spiritual Formation

· 28 ·

D AY 2 3 — S E R V I C E Mark 9:35 | Romans 12:9–13 | 1 Corinthians 9:19 “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.”

– 1 Corinthians 9:19 (ESV) As you have begun your college career there are many choices in front of you that you haven’t had before. You get to choose what classes to take, what organizations to be in and who you want to be. For many it is a new city with completely new people. With that comes a voice you’ve never had before.

We don’t often think of our voices as a way of service, but who and what we give our time to speaks volumes. It’s easy to get caught up in homework, making new friends and doing the numerous things Nashville has to offer.

How you live can be in service to other people. Find what you are passionate about. Growing up my pastor always said find your “holy discontent.” Bill Hybels explains it as this: “What is the one aspect of this broken world that, when you see it, touch it, get near it, you just can’t stand? Very likely, that firestorm of frustration reflects your holy discontent, a reality so troubling that you are thrust off the couch and into the game.”

For some it’s human trafficking, animal abuse or providing good hospitality. When Jesus speaks to his disciples in Mark 9:35 he says, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.” Stand up for those who cannot help themselves and find where your gifts match the what the world needs. College is a great time to figure out what your heart aches for. It can also be a time that seems very selfish when you’re figuring out who you are and who you want to be. It is my hope that in this time you are able to find joy in serving others.

ALEXA N DRA MIL L ER -KN AAC K Belmont Alumna, Class of 2017

· 29 ·

D AY 2 4 — V O C AT I O N Ruth 1:15–18 | Matthew 28:16–20 | Romans 12:4–8 If ever there was a time I fought self-comparison (and lost, in most cases), it was during college. From day one, Belmont brimmed with possibilities. Excitement might have won out over gnawing dread if I hadn’t been constantly consumed by the worry that I was somehow inadequate in every way, while other students survived and even thrived in their new environment. I couldn’t keep my eyes off my weaknesses and for a long time couldn’t get a grip on my strengths, consequently. All of life can be like that if we don’t redefine our understanding of what it means to be part of a community, to embrace the life we’ve been given while finding the freedom to let go of the life we want. This can mean accepting our limitations where we covet the capability of others. It can mean allowing yourself to be passionate about causes or tasks that peers or friends may not be interested in.

Receiving the gifts in our lives instead of dwelling in the fear of lack means being one step closer to who we actually are, discerning what the Lord calls us to become. “Vocation” sometimes functions as another word for “career,” but vocation is actually the place where your gifts actually collide with a need. Your vocation is where the work of your hands fills and sustains you while revealing the Lord’s direction in your life, as well as his work in our world. It’s not merely a synonym for “a job,” which may or may not do any of those things.

The book of Romans says in chapter 12, verses 4-8: “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”

The Lord distributes strengths among us like He equips pieces of the human body with distinct skills and uses. When we enter into this reality and discipline ourselves to exercise faith in the wisdom of His gifting, self-comparison is powerless to cripple us. As you begin your adventures in college life and, eventually, post-college life, allow God’s vision for His people to heal any shame or hesitance stopping you from discovering what you are called to do. Invite others to encourage you, and challenge yourself to encourage them. Trust that the Lord’s plan for you, as well as His love for you, surpass your supposed deficiencies.

JA N IE TOWN SEND Belmont Alumna, Class of 2016 · 30 ·

D AY 2 5 — T R A N S I T I O N 2 Samuel 22:31 | Acts 8:6 The transition to college, for most, is dramatic. You will find yourself surrounded by strangers far from the comforts of home. The change is simultaneously exciting and unsettling as you come to grips with a dizzying array of new opportunities and responsibilities. In this uncomfortable whirlwind of change you will find yourself pushed intellectually by courses in subjects ranging from the humanities and arts to science, mathematics and business. Some of these topics will seem familiar or, better yet, interesting. Others will be courses that frankly feel chosen for you and leave you wondering why someone decided you should enroll.

However, a willingness to engage is an important aspect getting the most out of your college experience. Even if you find yourself questioning why you are required take a particular course, respect the fact that required courses have been carefully chosen and you have been given you the opportunity to engage with a professor that finds the subject matter so important that they have committed their professional lives to studying and even expanding our understanding of the area.

The Bible is full of examples of people being sent off to interact with strangers. In Acts chapter 8, Philip is sent south into the desert where, on the road, he encounters someone who is different in almost every respect. Philip could have easily avoided the stranger but instead Philip engages him in conversation. Despite appearances, Philip finds that the stranger is seeking to become a disciple of Christ. In the end, Philip finds a connection with the stranger and both benefit.

I would challenge you to also seek opportunities to connect with strangers you will meet in your career at Belmont, especially in those subject areas that seem foreign and unrelatable to your own goals. Challenge yourself to engage and don’t waste opportunities to learn.

DR. THOMAS SPEN C E Dean, College of Science & Mathematics

· 31 ·

D AY 2 6 — FA I T H Proverbs 17:17 | Matthew 18:15 | 1 John 1:3-7 Many of your decisions, including the decision to attend Belmont University, are based on a faith that you have. Having fears or anxiety about life decisions are totally normal for this chapter in your life, but it is not something that you need to bear alone. Faith that you have been set upon your path is important to understand the why and how you got to Belmont. It is through the faith you share in your family, yourself and most importantly in God the Father that shapes your decision making.

Proverbs says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” You will probably face some adversity while you are here. However, it is through your steadfast faith that you understand that adversity is only just that, an obstacle to overcome in time. The Lord does not give us anything that we cannot handle ourselves, we are given obstacles meant to be overcome and to test our faith in Him and in ourselves. During your time here remember if you begin to feel the pressures of the university, that a diamond is only made through intense heat and pressure, so you too shall be a diamond one day. Have faith in yourself.

DA N N Y ROSELLI Residence Director, Pembroke Hall

· 32 ·

D AY 2 7 — C O M M U N I T Y Proverbs 17:17 | Matthew 18:15 | 1 John 1:3, 7 Community is something I have always valued. It has consistently been an integral part of my life, and I have always strived to find a sense of belonging in various groups I have been a member of. Growing up, I was blessed with solid friendships and was surrounded by people I enjoyed spending time with. Despite hardships I experienced growing up, I knew that I had a strong support system filled friends, family, teachers and more. When the time came to apply to college, my heart was set on Belmont. Ambitious and eager, I was ready to leave my densely populated Northeastern town and trade everything I knew for a different life down South. While I was excited to come to Belmont, I grew more anxious as Move-In Day got closer. With such a strong foundation at home, I created narratives in which I would never be able to find such a tight-knit group of people at Belmont, that no one would compare to the friends I’ve had since elementary school.

The summer came and went, and it was a time filled with preparation, growth, nerves and excitement. My mom and I drove up to my dorm on Move-In Day and when I was welcomed by all of the TT Leaders, RAs and SLAs, my nerves suddenly transformed into a newfound sense of belonging. Throughout Welcome Week and my first semester here, I was able to connect with girls in my hall, peers in my classes and tons of other freshmen who were experiencing the same feelings of homesickness and loss of purpose and identity. I was 1,000 miles away from home but I was able to find such a strong community at Belmont that felt like nothing I had ever experienced before.

During my difficult transition, I found refuge in Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity” (NIV). By joining different organizations, stepping out of my comfort zone and cultivating a new community for the first time in years, I was able to not only find genuine friendships, but brothers and sisters who were there for me to celebrate my accomplishments, mourn my losses and everything in between.

As it is with a lot of people, my freshman year of college was difficult. I started to become more comfortable being at Belmont by my sophomore year, and truly found my home here through the Towering Traditions Orientation Program.

Additionally, I got the chance to serve on Summer Staff the summer before my Junior year and to be a TT Leader the fall of my Junior year. The rest of my Junior year, I served on Orientation Council and learned that when I serve others with others, I am able to build community while making an impact on so many people.

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His son, purifies us from all sin.” – 1 John 1:7 E VA SIP IC Senior, Music Therapy Major Orientation Council · 33 ·

D AY 2 8 — S E R V I C E Amos 9:6 | Matthew 7:13–14 | Ephesians 2:10 Transitioning from one stage of life to the next can be an interesting process. Transition involves stepping out of the old and into the new. While this doesn’t necessarily mean completely cutting ties with everyone and everything from the previous stage of life, it does give an opportunity to move on. It gives us an opportunity to put aside our old stage and look to the changes the new stage brings.

Part of the transition to college involves gaining many freedoms you did not have previously. No one is stopping you from eating ice cream for breakfast, staying out with friends until 3 a.m. on a Tuesday night, or spending an entire day Netflixing instead of studying for a big test the next day.

Yet, as Uncle Ben said, “With great power comes great responsibility.” For the first time, you are learning what it means to live on a college budget. You are learning why your parents didn’t let you have dessert for every meal. You are learning about the importance of going to bed at a decent hour, especially if you have an 8 a.m. You are learning the responsibility that comes with your power to choose.

Matthew 7:13-14 tells us that there are many ways we can go, yet not all of them end well. We have the power to choose the path we want and the responsibility to choose wisely. Matthew also tells us that the way that ends up the best will not be the most fun. You can’t live a healthy life if you only ever eat ice cream. Sometimes it’s best to eat a salad and maybe even some kale. Eating more salad and kale will lead to a longer and healthier life.

So in this time of transition know that you have great power, which can lead to you doing some really fun, exciting, and new things. But also know you have the great responsibility of controlling your power, making sure it doesn’t control you.

KATIE KRUZAN Senior, Applied Discrete Mathematics and Religious Studies

· 34 ·

Week Five

· 35 ·

D AY 2 9 — V O C AT I O N 1 Samuel 3:1–10 | Jeremiah 1:4–19 | Acts 8:26–40 Much of college life is ordered toward what happens after college: landing a job, getting into grad school, moving on to the “real” world. Thus, we are often tempted to think of our lives as somehow not the “real” world.

Think back over the past few days and weeks. Your excitement to be here is real. Your homesickness is real. The attraction to that certain person in your FYS is real (well, maybe). Your sense of being overwhelmed by the things your professors expect you to do before Christmas is real. The bill you have to pay every semester is real. I’ve been with college students long enough to know that this is very much the real world.

Our temptation—exacerbated by social media—is to regard the people in our lives as somehow less than real, as mere characters we encounter on our way to the “real world.”

If the incarnation of God as Jesus teaches us anything, it teaches us that right here and now are the moments that God, in all of God’s self, breaks into and redeems. The beginning of any faithful conversation about vocation has to be based in this: there is no day, no time, no place more real than this day, this time and this place. It also means, of course, that we are in the midst of real people.

Samuel might have been like a college student. After all, he was serving and learning, much like a student does, waiting for the time when his vocation would become clear—that time when he would be in the “real world.” God, however, sees all that we do as real, and thus calls us in these moments the same way that God called Samuel. Look all around you, listen all around you and I guarantee that you will hear God speaking.

MI CA H WEEDMAN Associate University Minster, Director of Outreach and Mission

· 36 ·

D AY 3 0 — T R A N S I T I O N Genesis 17:5 | Psalm 62:6 | Philippians 4:6–7 Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Being someone who likes to be in control, I used to always embrace the anxiety that comes along with it. This anxiety would break me down, piece by piece, until I eventually snapped. This became a big problem when I started attending Belmont. I’ll never forget when I reached my breaking point during freshman year. It was in November, and I had just got my first bad test grade in college. My roommate was out of town, so I just let loose in my room. I was screaming, crying and punching pillows for what felt like hours. I lived in Pembroke, so I’m sure everyone in the building heard me through those paper-thin walls. The next morning, my RA came up to me and said that we needed to talk. He asked me what was going on. Everything came pouring out of me like water through a hose. All the stress of leaving my friends and moving to Belmont, having a heavier homework load than ever before, and my frustrations with my roommate left me shattered and in tears. My RA recited the verse above to me and told me to pray it out. I began setting aside time every morning and night to pray. This completely changed my college experience. It went from miserable to bearable, and then from bearable to the best time of my life.

Moving into college is incredibly stressful. I don’t think there’s a single person at Belmont who hasn’t had a moment where they just break down from all the change that’s occurring. The beautiful thing is that we don’t have to carry this burden on our own. We serve a loving God that wants to replace the stress with peace. I challenge you to set aside 15-30 minutes each morning and each night to pray. Take some time and talk to God. Thank Him for the opportunities you’ve been blessed with. Praise Him for the good and for the bad. Ask Him to get you through the transition period you’re in. As you draw closer to God, I promise you that you’ll be much better off than if you don’t.

DA N N Y HEN N ESSEY Senior, Music Business Major SLA Mentor, RA

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D AY 3 1 — FA I T H Psalm 37:3–5, 7a | Matthew 6:8b, 31–34 | 2 Timothy 1:7 The longer I am at Belmont (and frankly, I’ve been here longer than most freshmen have been alive!!), the more I realize that new students seem to arrive on campus immersed in one of two very divergent states. Some have that “deer in the headlights” look that betrays their understandable fear of the unknown. “How am I going to live? What will I eat? Is the food in the Caf even edible?” (NOTE: The Caf is pretty amazing!!) Others are more like the proverbial “bull in the china shop” determined to take full advantage of their new level of social freedom. “On my own at last. I can come in whenever I want. I LOVE 4:00 in the morning!” (NOTE: This may or may not have been my own approach to freshman year!) May I recommend a third option for you? May I encourage you to come in faith—not in fear and, umm, not in foolishness? Faith.

No fear? Jesus gave us the promise: seek the things of God, and He will take care of the things we need—after all, He knows we need them. But the promise comes with another sweet benefit. When we seek the things of God in faith, there’s no need to worry. No worry! No fear. I especially love the words of Jesus: “Don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”

In another place in the New Testament (2 Timothy 1:7), we are reminded that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” So again, we find that we do not need to live in fear and worry. Notice, however, that concluding statement: “…of a sound mind.” That term is often translated “self-discipline.”

No foolishness? I know, it’s college. It’s supposed to be fun, right? Sure, PART of college is supposed to be fun. But, there is more to college than fun, and when we really seek the things of God, we find that a wholesome balance of fun and self-discipline serves us well…and pleases Him! So come in faith. No fear. No foolishness. God will bless you and meet your needs. You will enjoy your freshman year.

And—unlike me—you will be much happier with your GPA when fall semester ends!

RICH TINER Professor, Media Studies

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D AY 3 2 — C O M M U N I T Y John 15:12-15 | Acts 2:42-47 | Romans 12:16 Becoming a part of the Belmont community—living, learning and thriving here—can feel very different than what you thought it might be when you first began to plan to move here. This is as true for a new undergraduate student as it is for a new graduate student, a new faculty member or a new staff member. I can imagine that the same could be said for anyone who is new to any college or university campus each fall, but what I sincerely hope is that all who are new to the Belmont community are able to feel embraced by what Belmont is, by who Belmont is, and by what we are all committed to sharing—the love of Christ in our lives. While many different reasons and disciplines might bring us to Belmont, what we share in common, what we practice in faith and what we bring to this community, is a commitment to be who we are and a part of something bigger than ourselves.

Today’s scripture readings are a call to action that encourages each of us to think about ourselves as part of a community and what that means for us. The readings help illustrate for us that the Christian community of Belmont is a source of strength and courage, hope and sustenance, friendship and foundation, that will help us all be better together than we are apart. With this in mind, always remember that, as Christ is, was, and always will be here for us, the Belmont community is here for you, and you for us. As a part of this community, we are all bound together by our belief that we can “engage and transform the world through disciplined intelligence, compassion, courage and faith.” Know that I am excited you are here and that I am glad you’ve chosen to be part of our community. Take advantage of what our community has to offer, find ways to serve others, and know that, no matter what, you are a part of our community and we love you, without reason or limit, for who you are.

T HOMAS BURN S Provost

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D AY 3 3 — S E R V I C E Proverbs 31:8-9 | Luke 6:38 | Acts 20:35 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” – Proverbs 31:8-9 There are many in our world who cannot speak up for themselves, defend themselves or provide for themselves.

Some are politically oppressed and face dangers to themselves or their friends and family members if they speak up.

Some are economically oppressed and do not have access to the jobs they need to provide food, shelter and health care for themselves and their families. Some are too sick and weak to provide for themselves. The poor are often ignored by society when they try to speak up about their situation. They often do not have access to lawyers or politicians. The poverty in many places in the world is unimaginable to many of us in the United States. Many of these people fall prey to the selfish, greedy and corrupt. It is up to the strong in this world to provide for these people. It is we who are the strong.

God gives us resources, and He intends for us to use these resources to not only provide for ourselves and our family, but also to provide for those in the world who cannot provide for themselves. God gives us intelligence, education, knowledge, skills, money, time, empathy and experiences. All of us are given something that we can use to make the world a better place. All of these things come from God, and are therefore Spiritual Gifts. Your set of Gifts is not exactly the same as anyone else’s; therefore, your help is needed. “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good….All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12: 7, 11). The Bible tells us “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act” (Proverbs 3:27). It is not always in our power to act, but there will be times when it is.

Sometimes it might be a very minor matter, or an opportunity of limited influence, but that shouldn’t stop us. During the next four years, you’ll gain exposure to the injustice and problems in this world, and you’ll be given knowledge and skills to do your part to ease the suffering. Take advantage of all of these incredible opportunities!

DR. DANNY BILES Professor, Mathematics & Computer Science Department

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D AY 3 4 — V O C AT I O N 1 Samuel 16:6–13 | Luke 1:26–38 | Acts 16:11–15 I think we often overcomplicate the idea of vocation. We turn vocation into this nebulous concept that is “out there” waiting for us to discover. The path of discovery is often vague and numerous thinkers and writers have equally numerous ideas about what vocation is and how to find it. As a result, many times we look for vocation in all the wrong places.

We often think unless we do something spectacular, our lives are more or less meaningless and we missed our sense of vocation. Unless we establish a nonprofit or work toward a cure for a disease then our lives lack a sense of vocation.

We try so desperately to listen for the call to become something “great” that we miss the quiet, but sacred voice of vocation calling to us every day. I think embracing our vocation is less about something we do someday in the future, and more about how well we pay attention in the present moment.

Vocation requires that we have eyes to see and ears to hear coupled with the willingness and courage to humbly respond. This is what we see in today’s passages. Three very ordinary people, David—the baby of the family, Mary—an unmarried teenager, and Lydia—a pagan business woman, all willing to listen and respond to the present moment.

Even still it might be easy to read these passages and think, “Well I would too if I had an angel or prophet tell me clearly what I am supposed to do.” While we might never have a divine encounter as Mary did, we can all assume the same approach as she, David and Lydia had. We too can learn to have eyes to see and ears to hear.

So what, or rather who is calling in your life? Is it a classmate who needs help studying for a subject in which you excel?

Maybe your professor is worn out and in need of a simple thank you. Who is God calling you to be, not in the distant future, but today? The way of vocation might not be extraordinary, but neither is it complicated. Rather the path of vocation is sacred and always lies open before us, we just need to pay attention.

JOSHUA RIEDEL Assistant of Spiritual Formation

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D AY 3 5 — T R A N S I T I O N Genesis 32:28 | Isaiah 44:8 | John 14:1–3 For many of us, transitions on the scale of leaving home and coming to college are full of joy, excitement and anticipation. But for many of us, there’s also a fair bit of anxiety, fear and striving. The next four years are full and pivotal and we might be wondering, like Jacob, what is it that we must do to receive a blessing from God. This is why Jacob’s story is so useful, and even perhaps encouraging, even if he seems an odd example of transitioning well. Jacob doesn’t “transition well” into any stage of his life—childhood, adulthood, marriage, parenthood, even grandparent-hood (when Jacob blesses his grandchildren, he intentionally chooses the “wrong” one to go first). The latter part of Genesis is, if anything, a story about what a dysfunctional hero Jacob is. Jacob comes out of the womb in conflict with his brother, whom he eventually swindles. He himself is swindled by his father-in-law and he openly plays favorites among his two wives. After relying on concubines (in addition to his wives) to procreate, he openly favors one of his children among the others (who in turn sell the favored child into slavery in secret).

At no point do we encounter a pious Jacob. Rather, Jacob constantly wrestles with God. In chapter 32, Jacob literally wrestles with God (or at least with an angel of God). It’s a pivotal transitional moment in the life of a man who never ceases from striving, and Jacob walks away from it with two markers of the transition: a permanent limp, and a new name. The new name is not a rejection of his past (in fact, the text continues to call him Jacob afterword). Rather, the new name symbolizes a transition rooted in a new awareness of God’s presence in his life.

This story of Jacob speaks volumes about transitions in our lives. Certainly, we should pay attention to skills and strategies that allow us to “transition well.” But Jacob reminds us that what is truly important is that we are open to God’s presence in our transitions—even if they are a bit of a struggle. At the end of Genesis, Jacob says a remarkable thing. While blessing his grandchildren he invokes “the God who has been my shepherd all my life, to this day.” These are not the pious words of a man who had it all figured out, all along. Rather, this is the invocation of God by someone who looked for God in the midst of every transition. May they become our words as well.

MI CA H WEEDMAN Associate University Minister, Director of Outreach and Mission

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Week Six

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D AY 3 6 — FA I T H Psalm 16:8 | Proverbs 18:10 | Phillipians 4:6-8 Here’s the thing about faith: it is never perfect. It is a constant journey, full of ups and downs and weird in-betweens.

Growth is constant, and there will be steps taken forward and backward. There will be a lot of uncertainty, and a lot of not-so-comfortable growth. There will be times that it will be especially hard to trust in The Lord’s sovereignty, and there will be times that it is impossible to not see Jesus in the miracles unfolding in front of you. You will fail a test (or two), you will lose friends and make new ones, you’ll be denied of positions and internships, and you’ll get confused about who exactly you are supposed to be. But there is one thing that will always be true, certain and constant—Jesus.

Psalm 16:8 says, “I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” When the storm hits and it begins to feel like the waves are going to take you under once and for all, remember that all it takes is one cry for help, one open hand, one small step in fullness of faith. There is no need to overcomplicate what comes after that; it is as simple as reaching out and letting Him pull you to shore. The things of this world are fleeting, the only true security we have is in The Lord. So why wouldn’t we rush as fast as we could into the safety of His arms? Why wouldn’t we dance in the freedom of His name? Let’s allow ourselves to live in childlike wonder and awe of our Father! Let joy overcome us every morning and peace put us to sleep each night! All it takes is knowing that He is King, and you are His child—loved, adored, cherished and purposed. Know that, believe that, and then let everything else fall into place.

“Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on theses things.” – Philippians 4:6-8

CHRISTIN A READ Junior, Entertainment Studies Major, Religion in the Arts Minor Orientation Council

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D AY 3 7 — C O M M U N I T Y PROVERBS 27:5–6 | PHILLIPIANS 2:1–2 | GALATIANS 6:2 How often do you step back to reflect on the communities that define you? In a culture that glorifies personal success and rugged individualism, it can be easy to forget that none of us are truly self-made. What influence has your residence hall, your sorority, your church or your student organization had on you? What opportunities have you been given due to your parents, your friends or the schools you’ve attended? The communities we take part in define us.

Community is an essential part of the human experience. Our God, as Trinity (three persons in one), exists as a community unto Himself. As we are created in His image, it is only natural for us to long for community. God recognized that it was not good for man to be alone, which is why He created Eve as a helper for Adam (Genesis 2:18). This indicates that Adam needed help! This is why we gather in churches—because having an edifying and supportive community is critical for walking in the light.

In Galatians, Paul shares the beautiful truth that through Christ’s death we are now freed from the condemnation of the law and justified by faith (Galatians 3:24). Now free from the law, its regulations and its curse, we have a newfound liberty in Christ. But this call to liberty is not a selfish call to do as we please. Rather, the freedom we are given from the law is to be used in service to one another (Galatians 5:13).

So as you take part in various communities this year, I challenge you to think about what it means to live sacrificially in those communities. “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). This is a prompting, a command, to move beyond your own motives and to choose a road of hardship. Taking part of others’ burdens is not about your convenience or happiness; it is about sharing the love of Christ.

Taking this command seriously makes for communities that have meaning—communities that exhort people to serve better, lead better and love better. None of us lives in isolation, so intentionally choose each day to develop this type of Christ-centered community. Don’t leave what your community becomes up to chance—choose to define your communities as those of Christ-like sacrificial love.

E VAN VAUGHN Residence Director, Patton Hall and Bear House

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D AY 3 8 — S E R V I C E 2 Chronicles 15:17 | Matthew 23:11-12 | Hebrews 6:10–12 “That’s a good major—you can make a lot of money with it.”

This is not the first time you have read or heard something like that. In fact, many colleges market themselves along the lines of, “You will earn more if you come here than if you don’t.” Earning a living is indeed part of becoming an adult, and getting an undergraduate degree can be an important part of the process of preparing for your life’s work.

But it is worth bearing in mind that the word “career” comes from the French word for “racetrack”: a place where you run round and round fast but never get anywhere.

No one sets out to live a life of busy insignificance; it is the result of allowing the temptations of money and comfort drown out the voice of God. For God calls us to do work that is deeply significant and which we can love doing even if the earthly rewards are meager—though if we wind up being paid well for what God calls us to do, we can contribute even more money to other work we believe in. In either case, we are living lives in defiance of measuring our worth by our salary level or standard of living.

The Christian vision for our work lives is summed up in the word “calling,” which raises the question: who is calling me and why? When Jesus calls us, he says a very countercultural thing: “The greatest among you will be your servant” (Matthew 23:12). One hates to contradict Jesus, but isn’t it the case that great people have servants, not that great people are servants? But Jesus came to show us what life if about: “I came not to be served, but to serve,” he said.

While at Belmont, you can choose a major that will allow you to be part of what God still needs to do in the world. You can take part in internships, class projects, mission trips and ministries that allow you to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength.” And by taking advantage of opportunities in your residence hall, in student organizations, in the classroom and in your free time, you can “love your neighbor as yourself.”

For you did not come here to be served, but to serve!

TODD LAKE Vice President for Spiritual Development

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D AY 3 9 — V O C AT I O N Ester 4:9–17 | John 4:1–30 | 1 Timothy 4:6–16 These next four years will likely provide many opportunities for you to develop a more grounded sense of your identity, and ultimately, a more grounded sense of your vocation. Even in the last month since you started at Belmont, your identity has probably changed in some ways—as you have moved out of your parents’ house, started college classes and met lots of new people, among many other things.

As you continue transitioning into this new season, it can be tempting to define yourself—and to define the people around you—too quickly, as this process of defining is a natural way to make yourself feel more at home and comfortable when you are out of place. I encourage you to refrain from defining your sense of identity and vocation too quickly.

When you introduce yourself to new people, it is probably your natural tendency to ask people where they come from and what their major is. But I encourage you to think about how to ask more creative questions which inquire about the essence of who those people are. What past experiences are most meaningful to them and have shaped who they are today? Why did they choose to come to Belmont?

Resist the temptation to define yourself—and the people around you—just by your major or what you are studying.

While areas of study can provide excellent points of connection between people (and can highlight the ways you feel called to serve and work), don’t limit yourself or other people to their field of study. Instead, I challenge you to define yourself by who you are in the broadest sense: a beloved child of God. Paul writes in 1 Timothy with an encouragement to set an example “in speech, in conduct, in life, in love and in purity.” These areas he lists are all more focused on one’s character and who they are than on what they specifically do—or what they are studying.

My hope for you today is that you might experience freedom and encouragement through the reminder that developing your character and sense of identity—and learning to understand the character and identity of those around you—is more important than developing a sense of identity and vocation that is defined only by what you do.

K I RSTEN RIEDEL Residence Director, Kennedy Hall

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D AY 4 0 — T R A N S I T I O N Isaiah 62:2 | Nahum 1:7 | John 14:6 “The Lord is a good refuge for those who trust in him.” – Nahum 1:7 The realities of college life are setting in right about now—you have settled into a routine of classes, made some great friends, found interesting activities and organizations—you know what college life is all about. Well, almost. You know a lot, you have experienced a lot, but there will still be more to come. You will almost certainly encounter classes that are harder than anything you have ever taken before, relationships that don’t turn out the way you hoped or thought they would. There will be challenging days and people that you could never have anticipated. There will be situations that cause you to question what you have thought and ask you to reconsider who you are and how you will be in the world.

This can be a bit overwhelming to think about and even more so to experience, but don’t let that stop you from taking chances on new friends, new adventures, new ideas. Continue to seek answers to life’s difficult and challenging questions. Continue to ask yourself how you can best love God and neighbor. Continue to take risks that will help you live out the call that God has placed on your life.

It may sound too good to be true, but you can do these things not with doubts and fear, but with confidence, because you are a part of a community here at Belmont. A community that will walk with you through good seasons and bad ones. A community that will stand beside you through thick and thin. But, perhaps more importantly, you can step out into new things because there is a God who journeys with us. A God who is good, a stronghold in a day of trouble (Isaiah 62:2). So don’t be intimidated by what may lie ahead—continue on knowing that you are surrounded by the love, and grace, and peace, and mercy of a God in whom you can take refuge.

REV. HEATHER GER BSC H DAU G HER T Y University Minister, Office of University Ministries

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THE MISSION OF BELMONT UNIVERSITY Belmont University is a student-centered Christian Community providing an academically challenging education that empowers men and women of diverse backgrounds to engage and transform the world with disciplined intelligence, compassion, courage and faith.

THE MISSION OF THE OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY MINISTRIES The Office of University Ministries is here to help you explore your faith through finding community, developing leadership skills and serving others locally and globally.

FA I T H D E V E LO P M E N T O R G A N I Z AT I O N S

• Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM)

• Belmont Catholic Community (BCC)

• Belmont Full Gospel Community

• Belmont Wesley Fellowship (BWF)

• Chadasha Gospel Choir

• C ru (Campus Crusade for Christ)

• Delight

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)

• Intervarsity Christian Fellowship

• Navigators

• Nurses Christian Fellowship

• Reformed University Fellowship (RUF)

• UKirk (PCUSA)

• Young Life

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OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY MINISTRIES 1900 Belmont Boulevard Nashville, TN 37212

615.460.6419 BELMONT.EDU

Belmont University is a Christian community. The university faculty, administration and staff uphold Jesus as the Christ and as the measure for all things. As a community seeking to uphold Christian standards of morality, ethics and conduct, Belmont University holds high expectations of each person who chooses to join the community.

Belmont University does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, military service or sexual orientation. Inquiries or complaints concerning the application of these policies to students should be directed to the Dean of Students, Beaman Student Life Center Suite 200, 1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville, TN 37212, deanofstudents@belmont.edu or 615.460.6407.

UMN-171028