Time to Linger

Have you ever set aside time to linger in God's presence? On September 22, twenty-seven emerging and equipping leaders from four churches gathered at Inspiration Hills to experience God's presence through nature and a variety of spiritual disciplines.

We agreed that just as too many logs on a fire do not provide enough space for the fire to burn brightly, busy schedules do not provide the space we need to be attentive to the Spirit of God at work in our lives. Lingering in Psalm 63 reminded us that our souls are thirsty and our bodies long for God."

Comments from participants captured the feelings of many.

"I enjoyed the variety of experiences today and the opportunities to be alone with God."

"I really appreciated the prayer walk. It was a great time to experience God and connect." 

"I felt most alive experiencing the unity of Christian believers sharing common joys and struggles. I was impressed with the different perceptions and how God spoke to each person a little differently even though we shared common experiences. It is invigorating for me to develop spiritual disciplines and feel the encouragement of others and how we are all working towards the same kingdom goal."

No matter where we are influencing others for God, we need to pay attention to our inner life. This day helped us to do that. Our closing prayer recognized that God's "love is better than life."

"Our soul clings to you. God, your right hand upholds us. Help us to take the time to linger with you."

Dan DeVries
Leaders for the Harvest