Fresh Start is our event for incoming freshmen to help them transition into high school. But it's not only ninth graders that need a fresh start. A pastor can use a retreat at Warner Camp just as much.
We arrive to cold fresh smoothies, and then play schism in the sand court. Then Doc takes us through some fun experiences, challenging us to look at friendship and teamwork in a new way. This retreat is about relationships.
So now it's late evening, we’ve had a day full of fun times, deep discussions, and soul searching solitude. Now our group stands staring up at a 12 foot wall. It's huge. We have to get our entire group over that wall. A few of us seem eager, but most are doubtful, or at best hesitant. But each one bravely vows to give their best effort.
It doesn’t take long to realize that when we work together we can beat the wall. And if we can scale this 12 foot wall together, imagine what real life walls we can overcome! What physical barriers can we break through? What emotional challenges can we hurdle? What spiritual heights can we achieve?
Again I am reminded that my pursuit of God can be accomplished best in community. When we make the journey together we help one another. So I wonder… How can I involve others more in my search for deeper intimacy with God?
Posted on
Fri, June 5, 2009
by Chris Spitters