Matt's December Update

One of our UTA students recently made this very touching video for a class. As I watched it, I couldn't help but agree that our ministry really has been a family for me too. For those students who don't have a good example of family, this is vital. That doesn't lessen the value for those of us who have a loving family, though. The relationships I've experienced within FOCUS have helped me to develop deep friendships that aren't out of obligation but founded on the unity we have in our Lord. In our world friendship seems to be walked away from at the slightest conflict, but Jesus showed us a friendship that embraces conflict. The culture which God has developed in our community has had a profound impact on many people, including myself. In turn, this has helped me to appreciate my own family even more. So take a moment to see what the students have to say - I hope that you find it encouraging!

Annual "Keep FOCUS Growing" Fundraiser

This year our goal is to raise $55,000 to set us up for the next 20 years of college ministry. Reflecting on what God has done through our ministry over the past 20 years, we are convinced his vision for us is to continue planting vibrant, intellectual, outreaching, Jesus-loving communities on every college campus in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and to be a resource for the world, equipping and sending campus missionaries.

One of the most exciting things on the horizon is expanding to SMU (Southern Methodist University). Despite the many obstacles of starting a ministry at a private university, we have had several opportunities in the past few months to meet various influential individuals so that the possibility of a FOCUS community at SMU this coming year is seeming more likely. It's a God deal for sure and we're excited to be a part of it!

Will you please take a moment to consider investing in college ministry? Every dollar will, in some way, go toward the development of committed Christian leaders in our world. You can click the image below to send a gift online. Thank you for your consideration!

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I hope you're able to find some time to slow down during the busy holidays, be with family and friends, and remember our precious Lord and Savior. The biggest encouragement I gave to the students at our last large group meeting is to be purposeful over their break from school, in connecting with God and blessing other people. My encouragement to you is the same. There are likely unique opportunities for each of us during the Christmas season. What better way to honor Jesus than to strive for obedience to our Father's greatest commands? You might ask yourself:

• What are some ways I could connect with God that I'm usually unable to? How can I love the Father with all of my heart, soul, and mind?
• Who are some people I will be around which I don't see very often? How can I love them as myself (or as Jesus has loved me)?

Thank you so much for your generosity and partnership with FOCUS as we work with God to change students' lives! Merry Christmas to you and your families!

Yours for the Campus,

Matt