The Big Picture

The Zoomed In Edition

One thing is clear: COVID triggered some major changes. We’ve witnessed increased usage of QR codes, different work and travel patterns, growth in online shopping, the substitution of fist and elbow bumps for handshakes and hugs, and various other shifts. Remote connection via Zoom and other platforms became the norm during lockdown.

And now you are reading CRUview's “Zoomed In” edition.

We are zooming in to provide a closer insight into some of the ministries of CRU so that you might get a sense of the day-to-day connections with students. We are zooming in to highlight some of the new developments which we’ve introduced to better reach young Australians. And we’re zooming in on the lives of some of the individuals involved in CRU so that you would pray for them, and for others who they represent.

It’s clear that camping activity for CRU has taken off since the easing of lockdown restrictions. Our biggest ever Term 4 of school camps was followed by a record summer season and also a record autumn holiday camp season. Bookings of school camps are through the roof for 2021. We are expecting three times as many campers in Term 2 as we have ever had before! School visits are recommencing, and school groups are showing wonderful growth.

In the middle of change, and in the hustle of lots of activity, it is absolutely critical that we do not lose focus. If you like, we can describe it as “zooming in on what is most important”. When speaking to people who were concerned about financial security, their future prospects and even the basics to sustain life, Jesus taught them to be confident in the loving provision of their heavenly Father. “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.” (Matthew 6:33)

God’s kingdom and His righteousness is to be our priority. This means it is to shape our words and how we speak. It is to guide how we use our time and our resources. It should be evident in the focus of our prayers.

The world’s view is contrary to this and will pressure us to adopt other priorities. How much are we being shaped by this worldly perspective instead of God’s Word?

God’s righteousness is revealed in Jesus, His perfect Son. I’m so encouraged when I hear of students and leaders growing in godliness confirming the Holy Spirit’s work in them. Please join me in praising God for this, and in praying that each of us would be singleminded in this regard.