There is much I can write about this past week... Elaine Heath and Missional Wisdom Foundation, Jacob Armstrong, Missy Buchanan and "Growing bolder, not just older", after workshops I attended, the altars, the worship, the people I met and those with whom I reconnected, table fellowship, etc.
I haven't been able to process it all. I spoke about it some in today's sermons at two of the churches to which I'm appointed. I will hopefully have some time to process more in the near future.
For today, I will post one picture I took on my afternoon walk around Lake Junaluska. It was during the afternoon Sabbath rest time that day. I walked around the lake getting some exercise, but also taking notice of many things such as: dark, plump blackberries that were beyond my reach; young fruit on trees; a tree that had come uprooted and lay in the water; ducks that were resting on logs or docks; folks out on the lake in kayaks, canoes, or on paddle boards; and flowers, especially the roses along the infamous Rose Walk.
My one picture from all of the beauty that I saw?
This is what I posted along with this picture on July 15 (Wednesday):
"Once again, SOULfeast has refreshed my soul, filled my cup, given me many things to ponder, and has blessed me more than words can describe. I have "come home" for my 4th time for SOULfeast and have not been disappointed. It isn't over yet. Who knows what teachings, challenges, or blessings await tomorrow?"
On Thursday, July 16, the final day of SOULfeast, I received more teachings and more blessings. But, on my way home from SOULfeast I began to hear the news out of Chattanooga, TN (my home). The news that quickly put Chattanooga and Hixson (where I live) on the map was a shock to many. It was a surreal situation.
I found myself relying on Matthew 11:28 with the heavy burdens on my heart and as I traveled home that day. There were many blessings along the pilgrimage homeward as I stopped several times to be renewed and refreshed by the waters and to pray next to a cornfield.
Being renewed is an ongoing necessity in order to be able to respond rather than to react.
Living into this renewal takes intentionality, but it is worth the effort.
That walk around the lake on Wednesday afternoon allowed me to process what I had learned so far and allowed my body, spirit, and mind to rest prior to being assaulted by more learning and by life's difficulties that I could not foretell.
What activities have helped you prepare in advance for some future unknown event? How have you sensed God's working in the events in your life to prepare you to more adequately deal with situations?
It may not be a 'walk around the lake' for you. It could be any number of things.
May you make some time today to 'walk around the lake'.
Blessings on your journey,
Debra
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