Thank you, Lord

Seven years ago, I attended a retreat, called CEW, for the first time.  I had been on retreats before, so I didn’t think it would be anything different, just another retreat.  But this past weekend I was on this same retreat, and as I reflect back on that first experience, I would’ve never imagined I would be in the position I am now, having the opportunity to be a part of the team in a whole new role.  All I can think about is how great is God to allow me to be part of something like this.  As I experienced the last three days, I was reminded of the power and presence of the Holy Spirit, the love of Christ, and the community that this retreat is.

I’ve written about this before, but it is the coolest thing to see the Holy Spirit working so clearly in front of you.  To watch people on the weekend be transformed right in front of your eyes in a short period of time is evidence of the power of prayer.  This past weekend, I saw people set on fire and filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit get up at the front of the room to give powerful witness talks.  I saw people have their hearts changed by the Holy Spirit and watched as others allowed Him to work through them.  There was no doubt in my mind that God was working.  It is something that I wish every single person could see and experience.

Another thing I was struck by on this weekend once again, was the love that is present on these retreats.  To watch people serve so selflessly, give of their time so generously, and to encourage and lift up others so well is evidence of the love of Jesus shining through.  When you’re on these weekends, you don’t have to question His love for you.  This is another thing I wish the world could experience.  There are so many people out there who feel alone and unloved, and they are just searching and thirsting to know Him.  If they could only get a glimpse of how much they are loved by Christ and how much other people love them through Him, their lives would be changed.

Watching the Holy Spirit work and the love of Jesus fill people up, it is evident that there is a strong and supportive community that helps make it all happen.  To be supported and lifted up in prayer by so many is something that is hard to find.  This community is truly something special that makes a profound difference in my faith journey.  And it is something that I hope everyone can find their way to, whether it’s CEW, or another community.  It’s essential to growing closer to God and deepening your faith.  It’s not possible to do it on your own.
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As I continue to reflect on and absorb all that happened this past weekend, all I can think about is how grateful I am and how amazing it is that I get to be a part of something so cool.  I think this quote from Sister Clare Crockett sums it up pretty well as she says, “I love ending the day tired, but filled with an interior joy, knowing that if I am tired, it’s because I have served the Lord.”  It was a tiring weekend, but a weekend that brought so much joy, knowing I could serve God in a very small way.  All I can say is thank you, Lord!