Gathered around an image of Jesus in the kitchen, a group of nine people, strangers who had become friends, meditated on what it would mean to be aware of Jesus’ presence by our side when we returned to our own homes.
We
were nearing the end of a powerful week, enfolded in the beautiful hospitality
of Penhurst Retreat Centre. There
had been tears, laughter, praise and lament, and an honest and vulnerable level
of sharing that had enabled healing to flow. Mostly
though, there had been Jesus, tangibly with us throughout.
Through
worship and stillness, image and symbolism, and gentle imaginative meditation
with the scriptures, people opened their hearts to meet with the Healer.
Sailing away with him in the boat, crying out to him in the storm, sharing breakfast
with him on the beach and reaching out to touch the hem of his robe: we
encountered Jesus in all those places and more.
We experienced what it meant to truly live into those words;
Come to Me,
all you who are weary and burdened
and I will give you rest. Matthew 11.28
It
was a privilege to lead the week and Jill Hoffmann and I will be leading a
similar one at Penhurst in October. We’d
love to share the experience with you. Why
not book in and join us?
.
