Sunday, October 23, 2011

Retreat Restoration

My second week in Missions was spent in Hungary. Upon seeing Budapest I made a snap decision- I needed to come back someday! I loved it. The city is beautiful, and I appreciated seeing some of the sights, as well as getting my Visa for Ukraine!
On Thursday morning the de Vuyst family and I left for Vajita, Hungary for a 'Spiritual Retreat' held for the missionaries and partners of CRWM, located in Europe. We stayed at a Christian college, International Bible School, in the guest lodge. It was a great location, especially for the missionaries with young kids, being able to go outside and enjoy nature, as well as a nice main building to hang out in.
There was about 30 of us altogether, I Believe. It was so great to meet all the different missionaries, they were all kind, sincere, a blessing to meet, and there was great conversations happening hourly.
The conference had the same format for most of the four days.. Breakfast- singing praises- then Dale Cooper- Calvin Chaplin- gave a talk every day on different topics... I thoroughly enjoyed the words he said, the stories he told, and the sincerity he bestowed. Then there was a time for us to get into small groups and discuss question related to that days topic. Then we had a time of prayer. We also got to hear from all the missionaries about their work, experiences and what they found most satisfying, and most challenging in their missionary position.
I praise God for the wonderful people I met, who love and serve God faithfully, how encouraging, and a blessing to see.
The highlight of my trip was probably hearing Dale's talk on Hope and trust. This topic lead into a discussion about fear. It really hit a sensitive spot for me, and I am reminded that I still live with fear. I would love to share something he said to us..
"We need to cultivate hope in God. See that God is Big. Have a BIG God.
God is great
God is also good.
God is directing history (My story! All of it- the trumpets, Ashes and Tears)
History has a destination, a goal.. to be with the LORD forever..
Take every moment as a gift from God & be thankful, praising God."
Perfect love, drives out fear. 1 John 4:18
..plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you Hope.. Jeremiah 28:11
Be thankful in all circumstances for this is God's will for you. 1 Thess 5:18
I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5
So, it was a weekend of conversations, praises, prayer, challenges, laughing, fun and encouragement.
I also had the opportunity to have conversations with some of the students from the college. They taught me different things about their backgrounds, shared their testimonies, and I felt completely blessed.. and excited to relate to some international young people. Very cool. So, I made some news friends as well, some I refused to say goodbye- just see you later. :)

"These hands are yours
Teach them to serve
As you please and I'll reach out
Desperate to see all the greatness of God
May my soul rest assured in you"
-Hillsong.

1 comment:

  1. Sounds awesome Jodi!! I love reading about your growth and experiences....Keeping you in my prayers and thoughts!

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