By Steven Enggrata
Before attending Seeds of Growth, I often found myself overwhelmed by the endless incoming deadlines, hectic schedules, and had trouble keeping up with tutorials in JC. Studying in Junior College was not part of my plan and I thus struggled to find motivation to carry on by myself. I felt that my life was just a never-ending cycle of eating, schooling, studying, sleeping. I thought there was no real purpose in doing something that I found no enjoyment in. Purpose, was what I was looking for.
A few months into my JC journey, I attended Nox Gaudii and it was there that I was introduced to Seeds of Growth, a series of sessions catered for JC/IB students. I was initially reluctant to attend SOG as it was held on Saturdays and I thought that I could be spending my weekends recuperating or catching up on some homework. However, with the encouragement of my friends, I went to check out what the sessions were all about. I was very glad to find others who were going through the same JC journey as me, and interact with those who had already finished their journey in JC who shared about their experiences and encouraged me on my journey. In that, God assured me that I’m not walking this path alone! In one particular experience, after the first session, which entailed Praise and Worship, input and prayer ministry, I realised that my grievances was not for nothing, but for a greater good written within God’s will for me and felt more open to the wonders that God has in store for me. As Hebrews 12:6-7 says “For the Lord disciplines those whom He loves… God is treating you as children; for what child is there whom a parent does not discipline?” This verse taught me that there is truly a greater purpose that only God knows of.
Soon after, I once again found the fire to continue on with my studies. I found out that by working hard, I am fulfilling what my Saviour desires of me. The fire that burns in my heart has helped me drive through obstacles such as my promotional exams, project work, and countless number of tests. Although the road remained difficult, I had a new faith in the Lord that what has happened, what is happening and what will happen are all part of His plan. Slowly as time passed, with help from the brothers and sisters around me, I could proclaim that I am living my life as a child of God, and no one can take that away from me.
I sense that there are many out there who are walking this path, struggling to keep up by themselves. Brothers and sisters, I invite you to grab hold of the Lord who is stretching His arm out for you and realise the purpose that He has for you. For the Lord says in this past Sunday’s gospel of Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”