AMY LARSON
Staff Writer
I am a Spiritual Life Adviser this year for a freshman dorm. This is a job that I was a bit hesitant to apply for, simply because I was not certain what it would entail.
I spent all summer thinking about the worst possible scenario, the toughest questions I could be asked and wondering how I would respond should these things become a reality.
I came to Pepperdine a bit early this year, spent a few weeks in training and then was dropped off in my new “office,” which is Crocker Hall.
Move-in day was probably more overwhelming for me this year than it was my freshman year. These were the girls I had be to live with for the next year — Would they like me? Would I like them?
I met residents, met parents, carried boxes, hung up posters, ran errands and gave directions all day long.
When the day was over, I knew that I had a big job in front of me. There were so many girls, and they were far cooler than I had expected. They needed me much less than I had anticipated — they were pretty independent already.
As the year progressed, I had many talks with residents — most regarded one of those things I had thought about during the summer months, and hoped never to be asked.
However, I was surprised. God was able to use even me — with all my apprehensions, nervousness and inhibitions — to reach out to the girls in my dorm. It is encouraging to be reminded that, though I can do nothing on my own, I can do all things through Christ, who is my strength (Philippians 4:13).
What is more, God has used these girls to teach me so much. I am truly blown away by their wisdom, faith and love. They are seekers of truth, always asking questions and hunting for answers. I have been really encouraged and inspired by simply interacting with my residents on a daily basis.
The point of my entire SLA story is to point out God’s foresight and strength. I was worried, but God was not. God is a master creator, and he can make something great (our dorm) through even the weakest of tools (me).
If anything good has come out of my time as an SLA, it is by no means because of me — it is all God. I still get a bit nervous sometimes that I will not have answers or advice, but God is teaching me that nothing is reliant on my wisdom. His grace is enough for me, and His strength works best in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
I am not writing this to suggest everyone should go out and become an SLA. It is an amazing, life-changing position, but it is not for everyone.
What I hope to share with you is that your weaknesses and fears absolutely do not limit God’s power. He is not intimidated by our questions, our worries or our mistakes. He is strong enough to handle anything.
So, the next time you face a daunting task or difficult situation, know that though it may seem like the most trying thing you have ever faced, you are not facing it alone.
11-16-2006