AU Chi Alpha

Chi Alpha @ New Student Orientation

2009-06-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to AU and New Student Orientation! Stop by the Chi Alpha table during the Campus Life Service Fair today (Tues.) from 12 - 1:30 pm in the Tavern. We'd love to meet you, give you a few freebies let you know a little more about what we do. Got questions on the campus, finding friends or exploring faith? We're here to help. See you there!

Summer Bible Study Starts This Week

2009-05-24T22:43:00.005-05:00

The days are getting longer, temps are rising, you're reading fiction again--it must summer! Every year AU Chi Alpha hosts a summer Bible study and we'd love to have you join us. We'll be starting this week, Thursday, May 28, 8:30 pm @ the Godzwa place. For more info join the facebook group or email Mike. See you there!

It's worth it

2009-04-06T20:02:00.002-05:00

I spent this weekend in Bozeman, Montana. It's a little college town nestled on the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains. I've never been to Bozeman before, and I wanted to look around a little bit so I strapped on my running shoes and hit the streets. On the second day I was there, I took a right on Main Street and headed toward the mountains on the edge of town. At one point the road started climbing. As I struggled up the hill, the wind started gusting into my face. With this and the fact that Bozeman sits around 5,000 feet above sea level, it was tough going (Oh, did I mention the 17 degree temps?). I planning on running a total of 4 miles and the 2 mile point was a stop sign @ the top of the hill I was climbing. I really wanted to stop early, but I kept pushing forward. When I reached it, I stopped and turned around. I couldn't believe my eyes. Streched out before me was the entire mountain range to the west of Bozeman. The view was spectacular!

The walking with Jesus can often seem like that uphill struggle. It's as if the world has arrayed its forces against us and we're going nowhere fast. In those moments we realize we can't do this on our own. In fact, we were never designed to. But when we tap into Christ's limitless strength we can continue on to the goal. Rely on Him, keep moving forward and remember, it's through the struggle that something beautiful is produced.

Good things come...

2009-03-30T14:15:00.002-05:00

"..being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

Philippians 1:6

A little more than a month ago, Starbucks surprised me with a new product announcement. They introduced their first instant coffee. The claim, "Our new instant coffee is changing what people think about instant coffee." I have to admit, I was skeptical, but because they offered me a free sample, I thought I'd try it. The envelope came in the mail last week and I've got a cup in front of me right now. While it's some of the better instant coffee I've tasted, it's still instant coffee. Translation: Starbucks Via isn't very good.

Instant goodness is hard to find. The Bible often uses agricultural metaphors to describe the transformational process. It's not something that can be rushed, in fact, there are times when it looks like nothing is happening. But as long as the right conditions are present and the crop is cultivated it will grow. Paul is sharing the same idea to the Philippians. Don't worry, this process that Jesus started, He'll keep it moving along. There's more going on than what we can see. Even though it seems like nothing is happening, it's encouraging to know that He's still working. The change may not happen today or tomorrow, but it will happen and unlike a particular brand of instant coffee, it will be good.

A Change of Plans - A Great Opportunity

2009-03-19T11:22:00.004-05:00

Unless you've been locked in a closet for the past week, you already know that AU's playing in the NCAA tourney tonight. The start time is @ 7:20 pm which puts the game smack dab in the middle of our regular TNW start time. I really believe God has given us an incredible opportunity to be salt and light!

With the hectic pace of life in Washington, DC, it is very rare that the campus gathers for anything. Last year I watched our tournament game from the Tavern and I saw AU come together as never before. It was amazing! As part of the AU community, I think we should be there cheering right along. Here's where the opportunity part comes in: when lots of people gather together in one place we have the chance to make connections where we never could before. We can also show AU how loving, welcoming, and fun the body of Christ can be up close and personal.

In order to make this possible, we'll shifting around our TNW schedule. We'll be starting @ 9:15 pm and we'll be delaying our spring break reports to next week. But I think we should gather far before the TNW start time. I suggest we get together to grab dinner and seats in the Tavern by 6:30 pm. Let's show up to the Tavern in our Chi Alpha t-shirts carrying signs and cheering like crazy! Whatever we do, we need to be present in the crowd doing what we're called to do: be Christ's ambassadors to American University. We've got some poster paper and makers so you can come by the office now to make signs. I think it's going to be a blast!

Finding Inspiration

2009-02-23T12:29:00.004-05:00

I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

John 13:15

We all set goals. If you're like me, your record of success is mixed. At the first TNW of the semester, I talked about my goal of getting healthy. This has been on my New Year's resolution list several times before, but, like most of the others on the list, it was forgotten by February. This year it's different. I'm staying on track and I've lost 13 pounds since Christmas!

Last night, as I was inspecting the nutritional info on a box of doughnuts (which I didn't eat), a friend asked what I was doing. When I told her about my goals she was surprised. She had thought that I had been blessed with an overactive metabolism. That got me thinking--why have I been so successful this time when I've failed so many other times before? I think part of the answer is found in external motivation. Last year, my father had a heart attack. A few months ago, my twin brother informed me of his blood pressure issues and the cholesterol medication he was taking. That's when I knew I needed to make some changes. On the positive side, both my brother and my wife have started to change their habits too. I also found a website that helps me chart my progress. That's a lot of external motivation!

This Wednesday we begin the season of Lent. It's 40 days (counted Ash Wednesday through Easter, not including Sundays) of preparation for the celebration of Jesus' resurrection. Although it has a biblical foundation (Jesus fasted for 40 days before he started his public ministry), Jesus never told us we had to do it. So why have his followers been observing Lent for centuries? One simple answer is that it works. Setting aside a period of time every year to grow closer to Jesus and serve those around us has a way of helping the image of God become more visible. Are you struggling with finding time for God in your schedule? Lent can be a great motivation to carve out a few moments every day for prayer and study. Are you finding certain things are distracting you from growing more like Jesus? Lent can be a great time to fast, or take a break from these things. Are you struggling with selfishness? Committing yourself to regular service over the next 40 days can go a long way in changing your heart. Observing Lent is starting to sound like a pretty good idea to me! Give it a try and see if a little external motivation will work for you. Need some more motivation? Millions of Christians all over the world will be joining you in your pursuit!

A Little Help

2009-02-17T08:05:00.002-05:00

"I get by with a little help from my friends."

Paul McCartney, John Lennon

If you stopped by the Chi Alpha office or popped in to TNW this week, you may have noticed that I wasn't around. To put it simply, I was sick. It came out of nowhere and knocked me flat for three days. Not fun. But, in His usual fashion, God used the 72 hours of nausea to teach me a lesson. It's great to be a part of the body of Christ! Each time I had to cancel a meeting or ask for help the typical response was, "Is there anything else I can do?" That's amazing! Right before my eyes I saw Paul's (the apostle) words to the Galatians being lived out, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." The funny thing is that I never would have seen this kind of love unless I was in need.

We live in a culture that encourages self-sufficiency. From early childhood on, our desire is to do it on our own. Many times that urge to go it alone causes us to become overwhelmed because we've been conditioned that it's wrong to ask for help. We struggle on until we figure things out for ourselves or it develops into a full-blown crisis. It doesn't have to be this way. Are you dealing with an issue this week? Big or small, ask for some help from a friend. Chances are you'll be quicker to the solution and you'll give someone an opportunity to fulfill the law of Christ. And to all those who pitch in last week to help me out, thanks for reminding me how wonderful it is to be a part of God's family!

Be Perfect?

2009-02-10T21:02:00.003-05:00

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Matthew 5:48

We just got back from Winter Retreat yesterday. What an awesome time! It was great to get out of the city, breathe some mountain air and be reminded that there really are stars in the sky. It was a ton of fun hanging out together, and the services were filled with amazing times of worship and insight from God's Word. I took away a lot from our speaker, Eli Gautreau's messages, but one thing really hit me. In his last message on Sunday morning, Eli unpacked Jesus' words about being perfect.

When I hear Jesus say be perfect, the first thing that comes to my mind is "Impossible!" Eli helped us all to understand that Jesus is addressing our intentions. We've all tried and failed at changing our actions. The problem is that we haven't allowed the change to go deep enough. When we allow Jesus access to our hearts, our core convictions, we can see our intention change. When our intention is for following Jesus in everything we do, we'll find ourselves becoming more like him in thought and action.

So where are your intentions directed? Have you allowed Jesus access to your heart? How do we do this? Maybe you need to find a quiet place to pray and reflect on where your life is oriented. Another great way is to immerse yourself in the wisdom of the Bible and allow it to speak to where you live. Don't forget about the help that comes from fellow believers. Grab some coffee (if that's your thing) with a fellow Christ-follower and talk about what God is doing in your life. Whatever you do, open yourself up to Jesus. It's the only way to find the transformation we're looking for.

Waiting for an Invite

2009-01-25T23:18:00.005-05:00

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock.

Rev 3:20

Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt like God was missing? Maybe He was just waiting for an invitation. We all have heard the stories of God getting someone's attention in a dramatically, but the truth is, that's not the way He normally works. As it says in the verse above, Jesus usually knocks and waits for us to open the door. But how do we do it? Prayer. Through prayer we begin to acknowledge God's presence in our lives and invite him to guide us.

At Thursday Night Worship for the last 2 weeks, we've been looking at our priorities. I can't think of anything more important than connecting with God through prayer. That statement was easy to write, but it's not always so easy to put into action. The words "Just Do It" come to mind here. I have to schedule it in or else it doesn't happen. Maybe you've never really prayed before or need to switch some things up in your prayer habits. Here's a link to some great prayer methods. I'm sure you'll find one or more that work for you. Another way to get your prayer life jump-started is by praying with friends. This week you can plug into the 24 hour prayer time on Thursday or join us for All-Night Prayer on Friday. Invite God into your life this week. Spend some time in prayer.

Interested in finding out more about Chi Alpha? Take a look through our website and don't forget to click on our events link for our info on what's coming up.

Wise Choice

2009-01-19T09:22:00.003-05:00

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
all who follow his precepts have good understanding.

Psalm 111:10

This past week at TNW we looked at a few things that help form the kingdom of God in our lives. One of these was regularly reading the Bible. The key word in that last sentence was read. There is wisdom written on every page, but the only way you can access it is by cracking it open and meditating on the Holy Spirit inspired words. If you're like me good intentions are not enough to make this a regular part of your life. I need a plan. We have extra copies of the Bible reading plans we handed out at TNW. If you would like the paper version, stop by the XA office this week and pick one up. Need other options? Bible Gateway has a bunch. Check them out.

Speaking of wisdom, our new president takes office this week (in case you didn't know why all those extra people were on the Metro). Let's be in prayer for Barak Obama and all of the leaders of our government that God would give them the wisdom they need to guide our country well. Enjoy your extra days off this week and don't forget to check out our upcoming events by clicking on our Events link.

Welcome Back!

2009-01-11T17:30:00.002-05:00

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33

Welcome back to AU! I hope you all had a great Christmas break. I am looking forward to a great New Year!

It's resolution time. Whether your into that thing or not, the New Year is always a great time to consider where your life is going. To help us do this, we're kicking off the semester with a TNW series called First Things. We'll take the next couple of weeks to put Jesus' words to "seek first his kingdom" into practice. I hope you'll join us

There's a lot to look forward to in Chi Alpha this semester. Just click on the events link to find out what's coming up and don't forget to find a small group to plug into!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T11:18:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas from Chi Alpha @ American University. May the grace and peace of Immanuel, the God who is with us, be evident in your life today and throughout the New Year.

Mexico missions trip apps due tomorrow!

2008-12-03T09:18:00.004-05:00

If you thinking about joining us in Mexico on spring break, applications are due tomorrow @ TNW. If you still need to pick one up, you can download the apps here:

First timers
Returning team members

Please note you will need to have the release form notarized. Christine Gettings, the assistant director of Kay is a notary public. Her desk in in the center section of Kay's office area. You can call to check her schedule, 202-885-3321. Email Mike or Julia if you have any questions and feel free to spread the word about the trip!

A Note of Thanks

2008-11-30T18:15:00.003-05:00

About a month ago @ TNW, Kelsey Cambronne encouraged us all to write cards to Chi Alphans abroad. They were a hit! I've received several notes of thanks already. I received another one yesterday from Cynthia Caul, a recent AUXA alum now serving with the Peace Corps in Ghana and I thought I'd pass it along:

Dear Chi Alpha!

Thank you so much for the card you sent me. It was incredibly thoughtful. It arrived on Thanksgiving evening and put a true smile on my face during a very trying day for me. Sometimes it can be very difficult to motivate myself to stay here; the idea of two years is very daunting. But, I know, I'm here for a purpose, and I always try to keep that in mind. I don't always know, arguably never know, just exactly what that purpose is, but it is so uplifting to know there are people back home supporting me as I try to figure it out. It truly gives me strength in a time of ambiguity and uncertainty. I wanted to wish you all a blessed holiday season, and along with that, a blessed finals seasons, as well.

Don't stress too much and know that there are so many people who would give everything to be in the position to write those papers and take those finals. I know you all know this, but I know when I was at AU, I could often use the reminder. I hope this letter finds you well. Again, I extend my greatest appeciation!

Merry Christmas!
Happy New Year!
Happy Finals and New Semester!
God bless you!

Love,
Cynthia

Some great words of advice as we enter into the last few weeks of the semester! There are still a few more things coming up on the Chi Alpha calendar. Check out our events link on the left and I'll see you there.

What are you Doing for Spring Break?

2008-11-10T00:33:00.005-05:00

It's not even Thanksgiving--kind of early to be talking about spring break isn't it? Not when you're making plans to go global with Jesus. Two weeks ago, we unveiled our 2009 Chi Alpha Spring Break Trips. Here's the scoop in case you missed it:

Toronto, Canada. Our team will be working with The Center for Student missions in Toronto, Canada. CSM works with 30-40 different missions and social service agencies that address both the physical and spiritual needs of the poor and homeless in the city. We will have the opportunity to serve by making beds in homeless shelters, giving food to the homeless on late night sandwich runs, going on prayer tours, cleaning up neighborhoods, and that's just the beginning. Our time in Toronto will be a chance for us to be the hands and feet of Jesus in one of the most diverse cities in the world, and at the same time, discover in a very personal way more of God's heart for those in need in the world's urban cities. For more info email Eleiah.

Yucatan, Mexico. We're heading down to work with missionary Dave Godzwa (my twin brother). The team will be doing light construction/renovation for a church in the area and outreach in the community through music, drama, testimonies, and service. Spanish proficiency is helpful, but not required. For more info email Mike.

Need more to make a decision? We have informational meetings for these trips coming up. The Toronto team is meeting this Thursday, Nov 13, @ 5 pm in the Tavern and the first Mexico meeting will be on Sunday, Nov 23rd @ 4 pm in the Kay Lounge. Come find out how you can make this your best spring break yet!

Don't worry...

2008-11-03T18:14:00.002-05:00

"So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need."

Matthew 6:31-33 (NLT)

We're on the eve of probably the most anticipated presidential election in our nation's history. Years ago, when this campaign started, it was hard to imagine the world in which this vote would take place. There's still a war is going in Iraq and Afganistan, but significant instability has developed in our relations with countries in almost every part of the world. This coupled with a all factors pointing to a global recession there's good reason to worry about the outcome of this election no matter which way you're leaning. And the fact that most of you reading this have voted by absentee ballot already, it may seem like there's nothing left to do but worry.

But then I come across this passage of scripture. Jesus tells those surrounding the hill he's sitting on not to worry about what they will eat, drink, or wear. Let's think about this. Craig Keener in his NT Bible Background Commentary writes,

"Most people in antiquity had little beyond basic necessities--food, clothing and shelter. Because their acquisition of these necessities often depended--especially in rural areas--on seasonal rains or (in Egypt) the flooding of the Nile, they had plenty of cause for stress even about food and clothing. "

So translated for our 21st century ears, Jesus' message goes far beyond our food, beverages, and clothes. He's really saying don't worry about anything at all. Instead we should "seek the kingdom, and live righteously," or in other words discern the will of God and do the right thing.

So what does all this mean for tomorrow's election? Well, if you haven't voted yet by all means do so, but do it prayerfully. Allow your kingdom worldview to effect how your fill out your ballot. If you've already voted, spend some time tomorrow in prayer for the outcome and that God's kingdom would be revealed through those who have been chosen to lead. And finally, remember this: Your vote, though important, is only one small way to determine the course of a society. Our responsibility as believers is that each day, not only Nov 4th, we would "seek the kingdom, and live righteously." If we do this little by little, day by day, we'll see the change we're really looking for.

The Whole World

2008-10-29T17:54:00.002-05:00

The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it

Psalm 24:1

What a night we had last Thursday! It wasn't a regular TNW, but as I listened to Dr. Ross' lecture I couldn't help but worship the God who created our world so perfectly. We'll stay on a global scale this week as we focus on God's plan to redeem it's inhabitants. Our speaker is a missionary in the Middle East, AU alum Jeremy Talyor will join us to talk about giving Jesus a year in Japan, and we'll unveil our Spring Break Mission Trips (oh yeah, they'll be worship too). It's our desire that every student who's a part of Chi Alpha have an opportunity to pray, give, and go on a short term trip to be a part of God's work around the world. This Thursday you'll get a chance to learn how. It's a TNW you won't want to miss!

In Awe

2008-10-24T08:49:00.005-05:00

We were in class last night! Dr. Hugh Ross' lecture, "What Darwin Didn't Know" was filled with some of the latest scientific research. I'll admit, it was a stretch for me to keep up with him, but one thing was very clear. We live in an amazingly designed world. It was an honor to have Dr. Ross join us and to be able to welcome so many visitors. If you missed the event last night, or if you would just like to hear more, the What Darwin Didn't Know Conference starts tonight, 7 pm @ Christ Church on Embassy Row, 3855 Massachusetts Ave NW, just a couple blocks south of campus or you can log on to the Reasons To Believe website. Both will provide an awe-inspiring look into our God-crafted universe.

The Power of the Invite

2008-10-21T21:26:00.002-05:00

Tough questions. We've all fielded some. In my line of work I've heard quite a few. The most difficult are the ones that stretch the boundaries of my expertise. When that happens, it's great to have some back-up. For me it's usually a good book that I can recommend, but I when I can direct them to an expert, I jump on the chance. This Thursday @ 8:15 pm in Kay, we've got an expert in the house!

Dr Hugh Ross, PhD in astronomy, will be joining us for 'What Darwin Didn't Know" Instead of TNW this week, Dr Ross will present new evidence on the 150 year old Origin of the Species and explore science that points toward the possibility of a creator. A Q & A session will follow his presentation. I can't think of a better opportunity to address one of the toughest questions a friend can have--"How can I put faith and science together?" Invite a friend to "come and see." It's going to be a great night!

Change Your Routine

2008-09-28T07:13:00.002-05:00

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland

Isaiah 43:19

We can get stuck in a rut spiritually. Sometimes the way we used to connect with God for years feels stale or just isn't working. While there can be a number of reasons for this, sometimes it as simple as changing things up. Maybe you need to find a new way or place to pray. Maybe you need to invest in a good book to help you jumpstart your stalled devotional life. Maybe it's as simple as just doing it. Are you in a rut? Invest sometime in discovering a new way to relate to God. It will be the best thing you do all week.

A great way to reconnect is by getting away. This Friday is the Fall Retreat. We still have room for you. If you'd like to come, just send me an email. It may just change your life.

As always, look below for more upcoming events and I'll see you on campus.

Worship Tonight!

2008-09-26T15:58:00.002-05:00

Feeling a little dry? Come connect with God tonight @ our Pre-Retreat Worship Service. We'll be meeting @ 10 pm in the Kay Chapel for an intimate time of worship, prayer, and soaking in God's presence.

Kick it!

2008-09-19T12:59:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for some kickball? Grab those sneakers, $5, and 9 friends and come on out to the Quad tomorrow @ 11 am. The sun will put a smile on your face and so will the fact that your entry fee will go to make sure some inner-city DC kids go to summer camp next year. If you need more incentive, we have Best Buy gift cards for the winning team and plenty of free pizza from Domino's!

Got Questions?

2008-09-16T20:43:00.005-05:00

If you like those questions just wait until tomorrow night when we host Curt's "You Believe What?" Q & A forum. It's in Anderson 6J (6th floor behind the elevators) @ 10 pm. Let us know you're coming by clicking on the facebook event. We're saving a slice of pizza for you. See you there!

What Do You Love?

2008-08-27T15:41:00.004-05:00

Join us for the first Thursday Night Worship of the year! We're getting together tomorrow @ 8:15 pm in the Kay Spiritual Life Center for worship through music, prayer and teaching from the Bible. Come check out what Chi Alpha is all about.

Making the Transition

2008-07-22T10:32:00.005-05:00

You're making the leap! It's the big transition--you're going to college! The move comes with all sorts of emotions. You're probably excited, but you may also be a little anxious about finding a way to fit into this new community. Chi Alpha is here to help. Here are a couple of steps we've found helpful as you transition your life and faith to American University.

1. Get Connected. You may be surprised to find a number of Christian groups @ AU. Don't wait! Check them out and get plugged in right away. You can find Chi Alpha in our office on the lower level of Kay and during Welcome Week @ move-in or on the Quad. We're also on the web and facebook. Look us up!

2. Get out of Your Room. We've got a bunch of great events planned the first few weeks of the semester. There'll be parties, games, and connecting points, all designed to help you get past the awkward get-to-know-you time. Most are free, all are fun! You can find the full schedule on our website. See you there!

3. Be There. Thursday Night Worship--it's our main worship gathering. The first one of the semester is on August 28th @ 8:15 pm in the Kay Chapel. It's an awesome time to experience God and find out all about this group called Chi Alpha. We're saving you a seat!