If you know anything about military terms, “retreat” generally means you are getting your arse whipped. So you retreat to catch your breath, to design a strategy, to regroup and reassess the plan of attack. If you have been around Christian circles, then “retreat” can mean something a little different — a time to rest and be quiet, to reflect and recharge. Think tents in battlefields compared to bed and breakfasts.
But I’m not sure the two meanings aren’t closer than we realize. We are in a spiritual war. And sometimes it feels like we are getting pounded. We do need to rest and reevaluate our position and restock our weapons. We do need to be reminded of what it is we are doing and is there a better way to go about the it. Who are we fighting again and why does it matter?
Thus said, I want you to strongly consider two “retreats” on the horizon, either for you personally or for someone you know. The “Yes and Amen” Retreat is a time to get quiet with the Lord and really listen for Him. It is not mindless activity but purposeful exercises that help us see where God is working in our lives. We all need to be reminded of the “vision” He has for us and this weekend really draws that out. Time to rest, reflect, reassess what you are doing and why. The Lord always seems pleased to breathe new life and new dreams into those who invest the time to be with Him. I don’t know how to explain what happens other than it is a supernatural time in His presence. We are truly refreshed and renewed for a different level of warfare.
On the other hand, “Sweetly Broken” is a very unique retreat to help women who have been wounded by abortion. This weekend is for women who have been recently wounded or have been carrying around this scar for years. We know that Jesus truly longs to heals this hurt so we are creating a very safe and tender time to seek that very healing. If this is you and you still feel shame or guilt, or feel like God is mad at you, please don’t live in this lie any longer. Come and be with other women who know exactly how you feel, but also know how to help you walk into wholeness again. If this is someone you know, don’t let fear keep you from telling them about this weekend. The walking wounded need to know where to go for help, so be willing to give them directions.
If God has given you a burden for these fellow soliders, we are waiting for Donor/Prayer Warriors who will carry each woman who attends Sweetly Broken in a spiritual way and a financial way. Think of it as going back to pick up a wounded solider on the field and carrying them to safety. We must link arms as we all battle together.
I am simply compelled to be part of building God’s kingdom. But we must retreat at the right time. I have to make myself pull away from the foray to really hear what my spirit needs for warfare. Won’t you join me for these two power filled weekends? And please, pray for His kingdom to be advanced as we seek His face.
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31
