I always thought it peculiar that church retreats are called retreats. If anything, they are far from it. I find them to be times of encouragement and attack on all things that are unrighteous. I was told, it's a retreat from the world, but in all honesty, we're just sitting the bushes waiting for the call to send forth our attack on all things evil.
Last weekend, Amy and I were able to attend the marriage retreat. Al and Gloria Baird came out from Los Angeles and share the wisdom they had accumulated with the majority of the married couples in our church. They share about their marriage, they taught us how to enjoy our times together and celebrate the differences we have within our marriage. I know that we have both left feeling greatly encouraged to change somethings about ourselves when it comes to our marriage.
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. John 20:19-20Do you think the Disciples were in retreat mode. I do. Faith allows for us to not have to huddle together behind locked doors, rather, it means we need to be more bold in the face of discouraging times and follow our hearts that beat for the spirit. The Gospel isn't just a good story, it is means we need to understand and feel great that God is absolute control.
Anyway, that's about it. I have to finish up some preparations for my exams on Monday and Tuesday. I need to review and read up some on the subject matter of the last seven or so weeks.
