Exodus 16:4 “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘I am going to rain bread from heaven for you, and each
day the people shall go out and gather enough for that day. In that way I will test them, whether they
will follow my instruction or not.’”

Campus Ministry is an exercise in trust. Like the Israelites in the wilderness, we, as a community, are
asked to trust that we will be provided for day after day. Unlike most congregations, we do not have
many long term members. Our community changes from semester to semester as students change
classes, as some move on to student teaching or research positions, or as some graduate or transfer. We
rely not on the offerings that come from the plate that is passed on Sunday mornings, but on the
offerings that come in the mailbox throughout the rest of the week.

And that can be a test in trust, where we want to spend time worrying that there won’t be enough for the
future of the ministry. We all know the struggles the ELCA is having financially, that churches are
having membership and money wise, and that we as individuals feel about how much we have to go
around. That affects us all, and can even make its way into our board meetings as we talk about our
finances and our future.

However, in my time with the board, one of the greatest blessings I have experienced is seeing the
genuine joy of giving in this Church to this ministry. The abundance that has been shown to St.
Andrew’s has been incredible, and has been a wonderful reminder of God’s promise to sustain and
uplift God’s people. Every time I have felt that need to gather more, just in case, to hold back, to put a
little aside for a rainy day, God has reminded me that there will be enough, and that ministry is meant
to be happening now, not saved for later.

As Giving Tuesday approaches, I want to share with you this, that what you give, what you share with
this ministry, with the students of St. Andrew’s is being used for ministry in the here and now. They are
following the instruction of God in this place and reaching out to people with love and hope this day
and every day, and they are thankful for the gifts they receive knowing that they rely on your
generosity and God’s grace and love.

By Pastor Priscilla Geerdes