The Encounter.

"Whether you're caught or you come, He forgives much."
"Take heart, I overcame the world."
"When we rush things, we ruin things."
"You worse-it if you rehearse-it."
"God has not given you pain as your cross."

Such amazing words. Amazing revelations. In one amazing weekend. Not likely to be forgotten by any attendees  for many, many years.

Now I know, this weekend was meant for us to isolate ourselves from the world, put off any old baggage or hurts we might have had, and grow closer to the wonderful Saviour that we live to serve, and I did that as much as anyone don't get me wrong... but without people working, striving, praying, seeking, studying, preparing, and just being willing, none of it would have even happened at all. Without Ms Laurie, Ms Anita, Ms Brown and others, there would have been no one to lead and support us throughout. Without the Flakes being willing to house 12 girls, most of whom they'd never met, there would have been nowhere for us to sleep. Without Grace, Hallie, Karen, Kari, Lindsey, Kristin, DJ, and so many others, there would have been no fellowship or growing unity between us. Without Pastor Steven and Ms Katie, there would have undoubtedly been no weekend at all.... All too often I think, or know, that we take for granted one of God's most priceless and cherished blessings disguised as... people. We are so focused on the process, the problems, successes or outcome of a situation that we fail to adequately notice and appreciate the only things God put on this earth for us to love... People.