Staff Reports
In a world where faith seems to be under constant scrutiny, the story of Blake Jones from Colorado State University stands out like a bright light in the dark. Blake, a 19-year-old Catholic student and active member of the Turning Point USA chapter, recently faced harassment simply for expressing his beliefs. What was his crime, you ask? Writing Bible verses in chalk on campus. That’s right—using good ol’ chalk to share some scripture turned into a harrowing experience for this young man, all while he and three fellow students peacefully counter-protested an anti-ICE demonstration. It seems like in today’s society, practicing one’s faith is quickly becoming a risky endeavor.
This incident is not an isolated one. Around the world and even right here in the U.S., Christians are increasingly feeling the heat. The climate on college campuses, in particular, can be downright hostile toward those who openly profess their Christianity. It begs the question: why are Christians such easy targets? Blake pondered this himself, suggesting that it may stem from the perception of Christianity as resting firmly in the realm of white European males. This demographic is often seen as the “main target,” leading to the unfortunate reality that expressing Christian views can elicit backlash, while other faiths seem to receive more protection against such animosity.
Interestingly, Blake’s journey to faith wasn’t always smooth sailing. He described himself as agnostic—perhaps even leaning towards atheism—until a life-changing trip to Rome earlier this summer. In a place steeped in history and spirituality, he found himself having a profound moment of connection with God. This transformative experience filled him with the newfound energy to strengthen and share his faith, even amidst adversity. Instead of lashing out when confronted with hostility, Blake turned to prayer, embracing an approach filled with compassion and the hope of understanding.
His story echoes an important message for young people navigating the complexities of today’s world. Blake believes it is crucial to continue spreading the word of God, particularly in environments that may not be welcoming. He advocates for standing firm in one’s beliefs, even when faced with opposition. To him, backing down is akin to giving in to “the wolves.” Instead, he believes young Christians should embody a spirit of resilience and grace, echoing the teachings of scripture. He cites a favorite verse, likening himself and others to “sheep in the midst of wolves,” encouraging wise and innocent approaches to their faith.
It’s clear that Blake Jones is more than just a college student dealing with backlash; he represents a larger dialogue happening across campuses and communities about faith, tolerance, and the challenges that come with expressing one’s beliefs. With individuals like Blake, who face adversity with such courage and conviction, there is hope for a future where faith is celebrated rather than relegated to the sidelines. His story is a reminder that, no matter the challenges, standing firm in faith can inspire others and create waves of positive change, even in difficult times.
