Flee and Pursue

I have been involved with Christian Students at UCLA since 1996, when I was a college freshman. At that time, I was desiring to be with people who were not only focused on their education, but who also wanted to gain the Lord. People older than me had told me that your most formative years are your years in college. What you become after these years will be the base of who you will be for the rest of your life. I wanted the Lord to be a part of my life, and I wanted this to be part of who I am. This was much easier when I was around those who had the same desire. 2 Timothy 2:22 says, "But flee youthful lusts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." I wanted to pursue with those who love the Lord and call on Him.

Among some of the activities I did while in college, one of my most precious experiences was prayer with another girl also in Christian Students. During one year, we were roommates and became prayer companions. During several difficult times, I turned to her. We would pray, and whether or not I got an instant answer didn't matter. The peace that came from Christ being enjoyed by us was comfort enough. Our moving towards Him through prayer caused Him to give Himself to us. This is all-sufficient grace, that supplied me during those times. This building together I will eternally remember.

After graduating UCLA in 2000 with a bachelor's degree in Linguistics and Computer Science, minoring in Education Studies, I continued to keep in touch with some of the ones from Christian Students. In fall 2002, I returned to Christian Students as a full-time staff member, continuing to pursue the Lord with others who desire to run after Him. May He continue to increase Himself on this campus!

– C.K.