Between Chapters: Honoring Endings & New Beginnings
"Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it is a natural impulse to hit the pause button, to step back from the whirlwind of life's demands and take a moment to reflect. In the rush of modern existence, we often find ourselves swept away by the relentless currents of productivity and hustle culture, drowning out the quieter, more profound currents that run beneath the surface of our souls.
In a world where busyness and distraction seem to set the rhythm of our days, the ancient wisdom of scripture invites us to do something countercultural—to pause and reflect. What if the antidote to our frantic pace is not speed but stillness? Psalm 90:12 reminds us to consider our days and gain a heart of wisdom, to make space in our lives to hear the still, small voice of God amidst the dissonance of life.
Reflection is not self-absorption; it's a journey inward, a deliberate turning of our hearts toward the desires and intentions that beat within us. It's about aligning those desires with the heart of God, allowing His wisdom to flow into the depths of our lives. Stillness is an investment in the well-being of our souls.
Throughout the Gospels, we witness Jesus retreating to quiet places, seeking solitude, and communing with His heavenly Father. He understood the profound truth that perspective is not found in the speed of life but in the presence of God.
So, as we stand on the brink of a new year, let us be intentional about creating space in our lives to hear God's voice, to withdraw from the noise and distractions that surround us. In the stillness, clarity emerges, and we gain a fresh perspective that allows us to discern the path that God has set before us. Solitude, as Jesus knew well, is a precious gift we can offer ourselves—a gift that leads to wisdom, transformation, and a deeper connection with the source of life itself.
The Personal Retreat is a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and draw closer to God as you navigate the transitions between the past year and the one that lies ahead. Take it at your own pace; you have the flexibility to engage with it in smaller, daily sections, each of which requires about 15-20 minutes of your time, or you can immerse yourself in the full retreat all at once.
To make the most of this experience, find a tranquil, private spot, and silence your electronic distractions. Equip yourself with a journal and pen as you'll engage with Scripture, answer reflection questions, respond to journal prompts, and seek moments of prayer throughout this journey. Our hope is that this retreat becomes a valuable tool for you, a means through which God can refresh your spirit, refine your perspective, and clarify your vision for the days ahead.