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Contrary to what philosophers might say, God isn't dead. The things that have been happening here at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse testify to that. One hundred fifty heads bowed-praying that God would unify believers, that his healing would come into the lives of those hurting all over campus.

What is God doing? I really don't know. One can only step back, praise him, and humbly join him in his initiative to reach the campus.

Although the early morning prayer fizzled out after awhile due to tiredness and stressful schedules, students have persevered in prayer for each other and for the campus in other creative ways and at unusual times. In addition to two daily prayer meetings that are held each day over the lunch hour in the student center, students also gather once a week for what is creatively called "Men's and Women's Prayer." These weekly prayer meetings have played a vital role in building up discipleship and accountability within the chapter.

Late at night, when there are fewer conflicts, students gather to pray. The men bond over such things as Monday night football (Packers, yessss!), cereal and "Veggie Tales" cartoon videos, while the women bring a mug and enjoy cappuccino together. Throughout the evening there is an emphasis on God, Scripture, hard questions of accountability, and prayer. After a time in Scripture, students share prayer concerns and pray. Different styles of prayer are often used, such as praying in pairs, as a large group, or in silence.

The success of these prayer meetings was somewhat unexpected. Due to the fact that historically the chapter has been short on male leadership, it's been a surprise to note that the most enthusiastic response to these meetings at this point has been from the men of the chapter. John Wheeler, the men's discipleship coordinator, feels that the response is "an outgrowth of people praying for this for years." Past chapter leaders had prayed regularly for male leadership. The chapter and these growing male leaders stand on the shoulders of those who have faithfully prayed and served in years past.

God loves the campus and desires his people to take seriously his call to be his witnesses there. Prayer plays a vital role in this. Perhaps your chapter simply needs to begin praying about prayer. (Recognize that he could answer that prayer after you leave! Your prayers are not necessarily any less vital because you do not see the answers in your time of service on your campus.) Maybe your chapter needs to consider implementing a daily prayer meeting as an opportunity to come together consistently in prayer for the campus. Another step you might take as a chapter is to plan a combined concert of prayer with other campus groups as a movement toward unity and partnership in being Christ's ambassadors on your campus. Whatever the case, be willing to take risks and get creative with unusual times and ways to pray. In the wisdom of that famed Nike commercial-JUST DO IT!