Mission Retreat

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15: 5

This is one of the verses we focused on last week at our first retreat for mission team members and families. It was part 2 of our (successful, I think) plan to start the year by renewing relationships with God and with each other. I’ve said it before, but what a blessing it is to work for an organization that understands the importance of investing in the spiritual lives of its team members, as well as the unity of the team itself.

Jason Bybee, a minister from my home church, came down to share the lessons with us. Unfortunately, Matt Moore got sick and wasn’t able to be here, but we appreciate all of the prayers and preparation he put into the retreat with Jason. Jason is a great speaker, and God really used him to touch our hearts and share a message.

We had the opportunity to listen to the word of God together, eat, play, and laugh together; God really worked in those few days! (Teaching Central Americans how to play corn hole and nerts is obviously a recipe for success). We were reminded of the importance of staying connected to God and being unified with one another. The newer, stronger attitudes of respect that everyone has for each other have not lessened since we returned. What a loving, fun, and ridiculous group of people that we have working together! I'm thankful to know them, and I will always remember the lessons they're teaching me.