Centennial Chapel quickly filled as students, faculty and staff hurried inside from a bitter cold snap as President Gregg Chenoweth took the stage. The morning’s theme, drawn from Deuteronomy 6, challenged attendees to deepen their discipleship by loving God with their whole being—especially their minds.
Dr. Chenoweth began his message with words from The Message translation of Deuteronomy 6:4-6, often known as the Shema: “Attention, Israel! God, our God! God, the one and only! Love God, your God, with your whole heart: love him with all that’s in you, love him with all you’ve got! Write these commandments that I’ve given you today on your hearts. Get them inside of you.”
Expounding on this foundational scripture, Dr. Chenoweth emphasized that loving God is a holistic pursuit that engages the heart, soul, strength and mind. Drawing parallels to Jesus’ words in Matthew 22, he encouraged the Olivet community to see academic and intellectual pursuits as acts of worship.
“Loving God with your mind means not only striving for academic excellence but approaching your studies as an act of discipleship,” said Dr. Chenoweth. “It’s about cultivating curiosity, integrity and a sense of purpose that transcends grades.”
Dr. Chenoweth highlighted the legacy of Christian thinkers and innovators, illustrating how faith and intellectual rigor go hand in hand. He shared the story of Olivet alumna Dr. Teresa Woodruff, recipient of the National Medal of Science, whose groundbreaking work has transformed fertility treatments for cancer patients.
“Dr. Woodruff once sat in the same classrooms as you do,” he reminded students. “She hustled across this campus on freezing mornings, just like today. Her achievements show us what’s possible when we love God with our whole being—our hearts, souls and minds.”
The message also included reflections on the broader impact of Christian education. Dr. Chenoweth noted that throughout history, Christians have led advancements in science, technology and the arts. These contributions, he said, are rooted in a faith that views learning as an opportunity to understand and glorify the Creator.
Quoting theologian Elton Trueblood, Dr. Chenoweth said, “The faith is an anvil that has worn out many hammers.” He encouraged students to see their studies not as burdens, but as gateways to fulfilling their God-given callings.
As the service concluded, Dr. Chenoweth offered a challenge: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind. When you aim your life at a Godward purpose—when you aim for what others cannot see—you stand at the gateway of genius. You stand at the doorway of your calling.”
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