God at Work

Matt 6: 31So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

This past weekend was Transfer Student Orientation for Ryan.  While we all looked forward to being back in StarkVegas, I think we were all feeling a little apprehensive about getting him registered, finding a place for him to live, and getting all the bills paid.  So we prayed about it and then Reja and Ryan did quite a lot of on-line research into all the details.  Ryan called ahead and made appointments to tour apartments.  The first tour really depressed us with the possibilities, revealing a dirty, poorly maintained complex and unit that smelled life a dirty dog.  It really surprised Ryan at the conditions for which college kids (and parents)  happily fork over premium rent.  Worse, that night in the hotel, the neighbors kept us up nearly all night with post-party talk and laughter that came through the paper-thin walls loud and clear.  
So we prayed more and drove around Starkville and stumbled upon some one bedroom stand-alone houses that really intrigued Ryan with the possibilities of true privacy.  Although not luxurious, they were spacious and offered the privacy Ryan desired.  These weren't advertised on the web in any way that we could find before or after our trip, but we felt God had guided us in that direction.  The next day, Ryan had an appointment for some much newer apartments further from campus on a golf course.  They had demo units that were very tastefully decorated and of course were in perfect show condition.  Suddenly Ryan found himself torn between two really good options - an answer to prayer.  
Orientation was useful, but not hugely so and as Reja and I waited for Ryan to meet with his advisor and register for classes, at least I wondered if that day was going to prove worth the time.  When he finally finished, he was incredibly animated and energized.  His advisor had taken a very personal interest in him, his calling to ministry, and his education.  Although we thought we had done all the right research, upon hearing Ryan's testimony, then reviewing his major declaration and strawman class schedule, the professor recommended an entirely different approach stating that Ryan was in for a very liberal experience that would challenge his beliefs rather than reinforce and grow them.  He first recommended a change in his philosophy degree emphasis from a pre-seminary track to a religion track so that Ryan could take more religion classes and less philosophy classes.  Then he worked a schedule to line up specific teachers that would work closely with Ryan for success.  Ryan was greatly encouraged and it showed in his speech and mood. 
Before we left Starkville, we revisited the two housing options to help inform his decision.  Both people we talked to were very gracious and hospitable (in true southern fashion of course) only adding to Ryan's enthusiasm, but not making his decision any easier.  He's blessed with a choice among to really good options for him. 
Finally we capped off the day with what was to be a quick stop at the Wesley foundation.  I had met with the campus director during the morning session and as we talked, he remembered receiving a request for information from Ryan prior to orientation and invited us by later in the day since he had not met Ryan.  When we walked into  the front door, we were met with a large circle of adults who looked up in shock to see us.  It turned out we walked into a Foundation Board meeting which really embarrassed me.  They were gracious and wouldn't let us leave without a tour.  As we wrapped up, Hugh refused to accept my apology stating how important it was for the board to witness parents take an interest in their kid's spiritual development to the same extent as their academic development. 
As we pulled out of Starkville, Ryan said he was now really excited about MSU and Starkville and could see it being home.  That one pierced me.  I've been dreading this chapter in life and that one statement summarized my dread.  Yet, it is a necessary chapter in life and must happen.  How awesome to see God at work guiding us through all the big decisions and the little details just so we all know that Ryan is on the right path and will be taken care of just like He has always cared for us.  I don't look forward to the empty nest, but I seeing God work through Ryan's advisor and through the Wesley Foundation experience, seeing God answer prayer about a place to live gives me confidence that the nest really isn't empty.  God is there with Reja and I continuing to love, lead, and council us just as He always has up to this very minute. 
So, what did I get out of Ryan's orientation?  Increased faith and confidence that God is at work, Ryan is answering His call, and God will be taking care of both Ryan and us as well.  And I thought this was about getting an education...