Thursday, September 19, 2013

Don't "Go It Alone"

American society today is the most individualistic in the world, according to Hofstede (2001). We do not easily integrate into groups. And yet, as individuals we have a deep longing for connecting with others, for sharing life's ups and downs, and for having our lives count for something with others. From the very beginning when God said "Let US make man in OUR image" (Gen. 1:26), we have it as a part of our nature to be in community. In the past, community was defined by location, family, and local involvements. According to Pallof and Pratt (2007) involvement in community today means "making a conscious commitment to a group". In terms of online learning, perhaps we need a bit more of the model of Jesus with his disciples! Individuals learn best in community. Online learners - we encourage you today to forge your community connections and keep them strong. Make the most of discussion connections in your courses with other students and the instructor. Just as importantly, bring what you are learning into your 'communities', wherever they  may be. Mutual encouragement, mutual inquiry, mutual growth -- these are as important in online learning as in the classroom. Don't go it alone!

 Hofstede, G. (2001). Cultures consequences: Comparing values, behaviors, institutions and organizations across nations (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Pallof, R. and K. Pratt. (2007). Building Online Learning Communities (2nd ed.). San Fransisco: Jossey-Bass.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Step Up -- Display the Splendor

What if? What if God really wants you to step up to the challenge of displaying his splendor? Wow!

At Oak Hills Christian College we often reflect on Isaiah 61:3b, "They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor." Who are these mighty oaks? Not the strong, the young, the talented! No! They are the poor, the brokenhearted, the captives and prisoners, and those who have experienced mourning and despair. It is not that these folks are good in and of themselves, but that they have been deeply touched by the hand of Jesus and know his restoration.

Christian adults who have been "knocked around a bit by life" and who have learned the sufficiency of God's grace are among the chosen ones who are able to display God's splendor. The strong, the young, the talented who have responded to the good news of grace have this call as well.

Share your story and share the grace. And when God calls you to go deeper in your understanding of his good news (the gospel) and of the culture in which you live - step up to the challenge. Sure, it may be hard and demand greater grit and perseverance than you ever thought possible. You know all the reasons why you hesitate to start or finish your degree at Oak Hills. You know the pros and cons for joining an online degree program. And still, the call to display God's splendor with all that is in you is there. Step up!

Oak Hills online degree programs include the Bachelor in Leadership and Ministry and the Associate in Biblical Studies and Ministry. You can start your journey today. Don't hesitate. Give us a call.