Thoughts of a Vision Course StudentMatthew Horswell - 20 Nov 2013

We asked one of our current students aboout their time so far on the Vision Course

Why did you choose to do the Vision Course?

This course was everything I was looking for.  It is this unique blend of breathing in and breathing out: a mixture of input and output.  I really didn’t want to go and lock myself away in a cupboard for half a year – I really wanted to apply what I was learning and this course is a unique opportunity to get such a high level of input and still maintain the giving out aspect.  The Vision course has an incredible balance of both.  We have 2 amazing days of lectures from world-class teachers and we receive mentoring into our character development but we also get out and serve the community.

I don’t think we’ll ever again get access to such intensive investment into our lives and at the same time we are privileged to spend time pouring out into the local community.

Also I think that God called me to do it! 

What has been your favourite thing about the vision course so far? 

This course is rooted in community and for me it all hinges on that.  It makes it so much fun running alongside people and learning together.

I have a feeling that this is actually how we should learn theology: within the context of community.

My favourite days are Mondays and Tuesdays when we have lectures and get a deeper glimpse into the heart of God.  Throughout the day we discuss the lectures and what we’re learning together.  Learning in community like this with our vision course team gives us a 360-degree perspective on God – it is so life-giving.

What has been the funniest moment? 

I mean, there’s been quite a few…

A funny moment happened when I managed to get myself locked out of the Greig’s (my host family) house very late one night and ended up sleeping in the prayer room!

What’s the most important thing you have learned?

That is a big question!  The main thing for me has been learning about the power of prayer.  It seems obvious being with 24-7 Prayer but the things I have discovered about prayer have been so life-changing as it goes on to affect every area of my life.

 I have learned that prayer has genuine power and that when we pray and declare that Jesus is lord over situations – it actually has the power to change things – to transform situations and change peoples lives.  

I’ve basically learned that some things will actually never happen unless you pray.  And that’s an amazing privilege and responsibility and that really changes your life. 

The other thing I’ve learned is that God is not neutral towards us when we pray – he actually has a default position of love and kindness towards you when you pray.  If he is predisposed to love you - this changes everything about the way you pray – you’re asking your dad!  This has opened windows in my mind that opened up new spaces for me to move into in prayer.  Its like a whole new landscape of prayer has opened up.  

What advice would you give to people thinking about doing the VC?

Do it!  If you want to change the world and discover yourself in the process, this is the perfect opportunity to do that.

If you are interested in doing the course applications for February are open now.