One Thing

I returned yesterday from a ladies' retreat my church held in Lancaster, PA. In addition to it being wonderful to be in Pennsylvania again and have my first (not last to be sure) taste of raw milk (for another post entirely), I experienced the nearness and love of God in special ways over the course of the 2 days we were away.

One way in which God met me is through the prayers and care extended to me by the women in my church over the past week. I was once again the humble recipient of many people's prayers and practical care after throwing my back out last Monday.

So many women asked how I was doing while at the retreat and sought to serve me by carrying my luggage, making sure I was comfortable and praying for me. Less than a week after I threw out my back, I can say that I feel so much better and probably 80% back to normal, the quickest recovery I've ever had from one of these episodes!

Some other highlights:

• It was a treat to see one of my best buds, Laurie, and meet some of her new gals from Ohio.
• The women from my caregroup who attended the retreat were such a blessing as they shared vulnerably and encouraged each other richly in our times of discussion after the messages.
• Being given the privilege to pray for two dear friends of mine as they seek to take steps to grow in godliness.
• Witnessing a number of women step out of their comfort zones in particular giftings such as sharing a prophetic word, praying for others and even delivering one of the messages in order to bless and minister to the other women.
• A time of solitude was written into the schedule and provided some extended time for me to memorize scripture and pray through/journal about some upcoming transitions and making the most of the season of life I'm currently enjoying.
• Seeing one of my absolute favorite people in the world, De Neumann, be rightly honored for the amazing woman of God that she is. I love you, De!
• And, at the absolute top of the list from this retreat is that a woman received Christ this weekend and is now no longer an enemy of God but a precious daughter or the King of Kings. Truly amazing to witness new life in Christ.

I am grateful and humbled that God would provide such an opportunity like this retreat for me to experience His love and care in such tangible, memorable ways. I have said it many, many times, but I'll say it again. I LOVE MY CHURCH! I'm grateful for how the leadership of my church seeks to care for and shepherd my heart by providing contexts where I can grow in my knowledge and experience of God.