Dear Freshers...

Jesus spoke about His people as the ‘salt of the earth’ and the ‘light of the world’.

So what difference can a grain of salt make in the melting pot of university life?
What if shining bright feels like a bit of a chore?
And what if, in all honesty, you’re feeling more salty and lit than salt and light right now?

You’re not alone. We got in touch with four recent grads who've been there and done that to share a message for freshers.  

'God delights in you working hard, joining a sports team and enjoying your hobbies if you're doing it for His glory.' – Hannah, English Literature & French Graduate

You’ve picked a course you love and signed up to a million societies at the freshers’ fair. Now it’s time to get stuck in – with your studies, your interests and your friends!

A pinch of salt adds flavour to a meal – God uses His people to transform lives.

So trust in God’s transforming power, and get involved – do what you love and take Jesus with you.

Listen to Peter Dray and Naomi Dawson on living and speaking for Jesus in all that we do.

'You can go out without selling out.' – Robin, History and Ancient History Graduate

Jesus loved a party.

Nights out might not be your scene – and that's okay! 

But if you love dancing the night away, why not use that to show the world that there’s an even greater celebration coming, and everyone is invited.

'I wish I'd known that it's okay to admit you're struggling. And that you will be given help if you ask. You're not alone in whatever situation you're facing.' – Joy, Biomedical Sciences Graduate

First year can be hard! Whether it’s workload, homesickness or poor health getting on top of you – there is help out there! Your university will have a course advisor, a welfare team and a healthcare service, so don’t be afraid to ask for the help you need.

We come to God as broken vessels, and He uses us in our weakness, so we don't need to feel embarrased or ashamed about the things that we're finding tough. 

You won’t be the first or the only one to ask for help, and when your friends see you being vulnerable, they might have the confidence to let their guard down too.

'It's never too late to talk about your faith or get stuck into church.' – Hannah 

Whether you're feeling uncertain or raring to go, there's a place for in the body of Christ that is your local church. 

Don't look for somewhere perfect – look for somewhere that keeps Jesus centre stage and where you can commit, grow and serve during your time at uni. Invite your new flatmates, coursemates and friends to be part of a community that will transform your time at university, and beyond.

Feeling a bit stuck? Read our top tips for church searching. 

'Don't worry if you feel lost, are doubting your faith, don't know who you are or who you want to be at uni. If everything's all in a muddle, trust that things do settle down, and when you get into a rhythm you'll realise that God was a constant all alone.' – Jo, Archaeology and Anthropology Graduate

Jesus said, ‘I am the light of the world.’

Being salt and light was never about what we could bring to the table – it’s all about knowing Jesus.

So how can a grain of salt keep from losing its saltiness? How does a light keep shining?

Jesus tells us how: 'But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.'

Whether you feel close or far away from God right now, know that His invitation is for you too.  

Explore Uncover to read more about a steadfast father and a son caught up in the whirlwind of life.