What a Weekend!!!

What a phenomenal time that we had at this year's Winter Retreat!! This weekend put some perspective on a situation that I have always questioned. Here we are in the midst of Superbowl season, and I always wondered where the coaches get there sense of accomplishment. I always wondered if they somehow felt slighted by not being "in" the game. It seems that they never get to do the "fun" stuff. No smashing heads, end zone dances, or leaping grabs would seem to deflate the feeling of accomplishment.

As I ponder this question, I know reflect on this past weekend. I, being the Youth Pastor, am not being directly targeted by the events or speaking. I partake in the worship times, but I am still focused on my students and the needs that they have during these times of reflection. It would seem that this weekend would have been flat for me. Guess again!

I now understand better why a coach seems to be the happiest man on the field when the team finally lifts up that Superbowl trophy. Instead of only thinking of his accomplishment. Instead of only having a piece of his journey to this time of joy and prosperity. The coach has the unique opportunity to have a little piece of each person's journey. The love, influence, and responsibility that the coach has in each person on the "team" causes him to have a greater perspective of the cost the journey inherently possessed.

I say all of this to make this point... I am so incredibly proud of each student and leader that was at this year's Winter Retreat. I saw the struggles that you pressed through, the burdens and addictions you laid down, and the joy that you had when you found the freedom that God wanted to give you all along. I love each of you, and I thank God for the ability to serve you. I am humbled!!