Humiliation for the Sake of Souls

So when I signed on to be a Campus Minister, I understood that it wasn't going to be a conventional job. I knew I would have to do things that are atypical -- scrub toliets, cook meals for 30 people, even just hang out with some really awesome young adults.

But I don't remember self-humiliation being in the job description.

This past week on the job we've had a lot of special events to get the word out on campus about our ministry at the Newman Center. On Wednesday, we had a special "soda and coupon give away" in the heart of campus to advertise for our Block Party. For better or worse, we had an open microphone for an hour, cajoling students to partake in some free soda action, and telling them all about our pig roast, with a vegetarian option! Dave and I really had to call on our extroverted sides to be goofy yet approachable. We wore ridiculuous hats on our heads, and said all sorts of dorky things into the PA system. The best part was when Dave took a slurpy sip from a soda right next to the microphone. It sounded so disgusting, almost like a fart, and everyone passing by was like, "Ewwww!!" However, there was some sort of brilliance in it because a swarm of thirsty students came rushing to get their free soda.

What does this have to do with ministry, you might ask. Well, creating an atmosphere where people can be who they are can leave them more open to the voice of God working inside of them. Showing people that we aren't some stuffy Chrisitans, but joyful, normal people is a great witness to the love of Christ. Creating a comfortable atmosphere opens up the doors of our Chapel, and therefore the arms of Christ. And if creating a comfortable atmosphere means I need to make an ass out of myself. Well, call me Miss Burro.