Dean's Remarks

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. – Matthew 11:28-30 (NRSV)

Twenty-one months ago, the first diagnosed case of Covid-19 was reported in the US. Two months later, Azusa Pacific University joined other schools and universities across the nation and around the world – closing campus operations and moving our work of teaching, learning, administration, and other University services online.

Subsequent months have seen remarkable highs – students graduating, dissertations completed, new educators launched into the workforce, faculty success in research and publishing, and the list goes on. Yet, this has also been a time of loss and uncertainty – loss of loved ones, the impact of isolation on individuals and their relationships, financial hardship, and that list goes on.

All around us we see the competing realities of joy and uncertainty. And, somedays, in our fatigue, the uncertainties seem to be winning. This is where Christ’s words in Matthew 11 bring us a lifeline –

• Weariness and heavy burdens are familiar to Him

• He wants us to learn from Him

• He will provide rest.

As members of a campus community that claims “God First”, it is good to be reminded of His promises –

• He will give us rest for our bodies and our souls

• He is gentle and humble in heart

• His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

I’m not sure where you are along the continuum of joy to sorrow; of success to uncertainty. Perhaps, like me, you’re in the middle of the seesaw – with high joys and deep sorrows. Wherever you are, He is with you, me, and us. He has promised us that

Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning. – Psalm 30:5b (NRSV)

I am grateful for students who are committed to preparing to serve, teach, and lead others even amidst a pandemic. I am grateful for dedicated staff and faculty who have balanced teaching, research, grading, responding to calls and emails, attending meetings, and serving students. And, I am grateful for a University that has adapted amidst historic change.

And, today, I am grateful for His unfailing love and presence amidst both joy and sorrow, and both uncertainty and success. I encourage you to claim His promises in Matthew 11:28-30.

Meanwhile, if you are experiencing heaviness that would benefit from meeting with a medical or mental health professional, please make that call now (or reach out for a referral to resources). Medical and mental health support are important self-care!

Praying for joy for your journey!