I Stood Humbled and In Awe

This past weekend ladies showed up from near and far. 

We had mostly local-ish ladies. But some traveled from Missouri, West Virginia, Alabama, and maybe even other places I didn't hear about!

Not only did ladies show up, God showed up too. 

He showed up in the hugs of understanding, in the smiles of acceptance, He showed up in the stories we shared around the table while eating. He spoke encouragement through our speaker and His presence was felt through worship. I watched the event unfold around me and stood humbled and in awe.

It was an honor and privilege to be a part of this. For God to work through us, and in us too! 

People asked me if I am worn out (and I thought I would be), but I'm not. Hosting this retreat was life-giving to me. Being there was soul-filling. I cried along with everyone else as God met me in my mess and hard and reminded me of His presence in my life and in my story. It was a beautiful thing to experience and witness and lead.

Five days later, it feels like a world away. It was definitely a mountain-top experience. I am still amazed at what God did!

Here are just some snippets we've read from the 86+ women that attended this year's retreat:

Thanks does not seem adequate to describe how grateful I am for the opportunity to experience this retreat. But thank you to everyone who made it possible!! I loved that it was made available to anyone and everyone who needed it.

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The diversity of my platoon was such a blessing -- ages from 30 to 58, from foster to adopt to international adoption. Our platoon talked about a lot of experiences and issues. I learned a lot, and more than anything, the discussions helped me really know that I'm not alone. :)

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I've been to half a dozen adoption conferences/retreats over the years but I've never experienced such a welcoming group of women where there is not some sort of hierarchy of how to do adoption/foster care/orphan care. It was so refreshing to be among you without judgment and pettiness and competition.

Praise the Lord!!!