Far too often, I am guilty of staying within the confines of my comfort zone. I enjoy feeling safe, secure, and in control of every aspect of my life. As a believer, it is one of my biggest daily challenges to push myself beyond the bounds of my comfort zone.

It's safe to say that stepping out of a comfort zone warrants good things- conquering fears, meeting new people, and accomplishing monumental goals. Even though I know this is true, it's often still difficult to take a step.

One of my favorite things about UNC is the colorful student body we have -- made up of students from places all over the world. This was definitely a new landscape for me, seeing as Alamance County isn't exactly an international hub. You'll find a lot of organizations on campus that are here to respond to this fact. UNC International Friends exists as a ministry on campus to bring together American students with international students. I joined this ministry last year and had a wonderful experience that has brought me a lifelong friend, a new cultural perspective, and a heart for international students.

This week I attended my first Friday night dinner with International Friends where American students, international students, and staff come together to fellowship over food, conversation, and fun social activities. While the karaoke was definitely entertaining and the pizza was good, nothing matches the community that was built. I made friends from Guatemala, Colombia, China, and Poland -- just to name a few.

I stand absolutely amazed when I talk to these people who have traveled across the ocean to a foreign land to live. They have left behind their homes, families, friends, and everything familiar. They have come to an unfamiliar land of new customs, languages, people, and places. They come with hopes and dreams and often face many difficulties as they adjust and learn to live in America. Talk about stepping out of a comfort zone.

I'm in awe of what God is teaching me through these people. My home is 30 minutes from campus and some of my new friends would have to travel 30 hours on a plane to get to theirs. God has uniquely constructed this community of people to be a place of love, acceptance, and an opportunity for the Gospel to be shared.

This year in particular, I believe God has filled my heart with His love and desire for these people. I pray that I can be a vessel for Him, a loving friend, and a committed team member. God's love knows no language or cultural barrier. His love is a powerful force that can unite, heal, and comfort.