 | Graduation to Glory Lizbeth Torres -- California State University Northridge - Thursday, June 26, 2003
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From L to R: Sandy Kim, Elizabeth Vela, Lizbeth Torres, Eva Acevedo,
and Janet Hernandez |
"Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the GOAL of your faith, THE SALVATION OF YOUR SOULS" (1 Peter 1: 8-9)
My name is Lizbeth Torres and I am part of the incredible campus ministry at California State University Northridge. I want to encourage the brothers and sisters of our fellowship to continue being grateful for what they have and also for unanswered prayers in our lives.
One of my best friends was taken early in her life to be with God. My friend, roommate, co-worker, and partner in the faith, Eva Acevedo, passed away of Leukemia at age 22 last year. She had dreams to graduate college, become an elementary teacher, date, get married and have many children. We stayed up many late nights talking about the desires of our hearts; how we could change, grow and become better women for God and his Kingdom.
After a Saturday night date, while getting ready to sleep, I received a phone call from another dear friend. I sadly walked to her place, praying, because in my heart I knew the awful news. My dear friend, Eva, had passed away earlier that September morning.
Many thoughts have passed through my mind these last six months about how God works in our lives. I have cried, been angry with God and have doubted if God really does have plans for our futures (Jeremiah 29:11). I remember talking with Eva about her faithful heart; through every challenge she always had a positive heart. "How could God not give her a future?" I used to ask myself. I searched the Scriptures to find the answers.
One morning during my time with God, I read 1 Peter 1:8-9. "The goal of my faith is the salvation of my soul." What a concept! I was so preoccupied seeking worldly achievements of dating, marriage and career; when in reality, everything God promises is eternal. Eva received the best gift God could give her, HEAVEN! She is receiving the goal of her faith. God never said, if you follow me, I will give you a husband or a wife. He never promised that he would give us money or career. He did promise salvation and our basic needs. All the other things are just extras (marriage, dating, careers, money etc.). These are perks of following him.
I remember when I realized this truth, I felt envy of my dear friend, Eva. She beat me to Heaven! But now I am more confident in my relationship with God. Also, I am more at peace with being single, and having the campus life style I have. As long as I am fulfilling my purpose, always doing my best (2 Timothy 2:15), and keeping my relationship with God strong, that is all I need.
I may never get a boyfriend, or get married or even have money, but now that is not my goal. I am content with my life as the daughter of God. If these perks come my way, I will welcome them, but if they do not, I will delight in the goal of my salvation.
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