Retreat is an interesting word. It can be used in two very different ways. In battle, to retreat is to pull back from engaging the enemy in an attempt to escape to a safer position. When a retreat is signaled in a military battle it is viewed as a sign of defeat. But retreat can also be understood as a time to step aside from the busyness of the world. A time for rest, renewal, prayer and worship. When understood from the spiritual perspective, retreat is a gift. It is a blessing to be able to get away from the chaos, pressures, and stress of the “rat race.” And often it is an opportunity to be immersed in a time of community with other believers and with God.
This weekend I will join a number of men from our church, and surrounding churches, for our men's retreat. I can't tell you how excited I am to spend this time away in Christian fellowship with other brothers in Christ. We will worship and pray. We will enjoy time to renew existing friendships and build new. There will be down time to rest or hike or play a game. And there will be significant time spent in the presence of God.
So retreat can be a good word. But what's interesting is that a couple of years back we changed the title of this event to the Men's Summit. There's another word that can have more than one meaning. Of course summit can be a gathering of people. But summit is also the word we use for the mountaintop. I have no doubt that this weekend's event will be not only a wonderful gathering of great people, but also a mountaintop experience.
I think it's important for us, from time to time, to get away from the busyness of our everyday life to spend a little extra intentional time with God. Jesus set the example for us. He would often retreat from the crowds, the teaching and the healing to just be with God in a quiet place. I would encourage us to do the same from time to time when we are able. Often these retreat times will indeed be our summits, our mountain top moments with God. And that is a precious gift.
I look forward to us all being together this weekend as we wrap up our current sermon series the “Book of Hope.” This has been a great series and I know you'll want to be here for this final message.
Love you all,
Pastor Steve