This semester has been packed with activity. One of my favorite events thus far has been our 2013 Women's Retreat held in Deland.
Last year the retreat took place in Winter Park, and I was disappointed I missed it. I hoped we'd return to Park Ave. so I could enjoy impersonating a local sophisticate. When I heard the plan to spend our weekend in Deland, I was a bit sad at first. Then I realized what a great opportunity this was.
It's exciting to explore a new place if you keep an open heart. Wesley's very own Aubrey Lane, Lily Geist, and Jacob Liseno grew up in Deland. They turned out so well, I knew it had to be a nice town. ;)
At retreat, everyone blossomed almost immediately. The Spirit of God was clearly present the entire time, and we let Him express Himself more than we normally do. (He won't force Himself on us.) Our community was authentic and strong -- by the end of the trip, many of us had connected deeply with girls we never spoke to before.
This was partially facilitated through an idea we implemented. A mason jar was bought, decorated and labeled for each girl. Throughout the retreat, we encouraged everyone to put uplifting notes into the jars as we left them out. By the end everyone had been blessed and took home a full jar.
I plan to keep mine for a long time. I may even turn the notes themselves into a work of art, for that's what they already are. Kind words, loving Truth from God -- they're forms of art with eternal impact. This idea was cemented into me, by those jars and the prophetic words we spoke to one another.
You never know what impact your words will have. I don't know just how this post will affect your life, but I pray it's constructive at least.
May we allow God the chance to speak through us. He will speak if we are willing.
- Jess
