Fall 2021 09 ist-in-residence.” On October 4, Papa led the student body in a worship chapel where he had the opportunity to share his heart for what he does. Papa says that the reason he does what he does is because he still believes that author and pastor A.W. Tozer got it right when he said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” Whatever that is for each of the students shapes where they are heading in life, and who they will become. “That’s why I write the songs. That’s why I do what I do,” said Papa. Papa hopes that his songs plant the seeds of God’s character in our minds. So as we sing, we understand Him better and more fully. As artist-in-residence, Papa seeks to extend beyond drawing others into worship. The students who Papa interacts with can learn from his ministry and passion to do just that. For Papa, the moments where he heard from experienced songwriters and musicians was formative at the beginning of his own career. Now, he has the chance to pour into students what was poured into his own life and share the lessons he learned with a new generation of songwriters and musicians. Papa noted that for many professional musicians, they choose either to continue their careers as musicians or to teach what they know. His position as an artist-in-residence allows him to do both. Investing both inside and outside of the classroom is rewarding for Papa as he enjoys what he describes as “seeing the light bulbs go on.” “College kids are in such a unique season of life, and I love the ability to influence people and what they’re doing in life,” said Papa. “Here on campus is just a closer touch point to pour into these kids who are just awesome and are just going to be culture-shapers.” Papa said, “If I can help pour into those guys and shape what they’re doing, then hopefully it will have a ripple effect through future artistry and song writing.” This forward-thinking mindset drives Papa to share his experience with young people seeking to enter the music industry and make a big impact for God. Kathryn McDonald is a junior Psychology major and a Campus News writer for Cedars. When she’s not at her desk studying, you can probably catch her in the library writing a letter to a friend, Photos – Esnest Toh
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM4ODY=