Mountain Tops

I had a wonderful time at my writers’ retreat this weekend. This was our third year and every year gets even sweeter because we know each other that much better. We feel safer and are willing to be even more vulnerable than perhaps the year before. We laugh so hard, too. We’re a crazy lot and with all this history that’s forming between us, five minutes seldom pass without somebody saying something that has us all in stitches. We’ve become quite the little family and already have set the date for next year’s reunion.

So here it is Monday morning and I’m feeling a little mellow. The Lord has been gracious and my fledging little business, WordCount, seems to be taking flight. I’m sure I’ll be sharing more about this as the months go by, but here I mention it to say I have a full day of work ahead, especially since I’ve been playing for the last four. I’m a little behind.

Yet it’s hard to transition this morning. It’s hard that the weekend is over. I want it to continue. But it’s time to climb back down the mountain. I’m thankful to God for giving me these wonderful times of refreshment and fellowship to strengthen me to return to my responsibilities and all that He’s called me to.

I have a lot on my mind this morning just thinking about the weekend and about all that I have to do today. I really need to start now. In the middle of it all, though, I’m smiling as I reflect on the numerous ways God blessed us each. It wasn’t just fun. We were emboldened. And while it was writing that brought us all initially together, the weekend is far more than about writing. It’s about connecting to one another and growing in love and support for one another. The strength we gained will carry us through the whole year as we reflect back on our four days together.

Times such as this stir within me a deep longing for heaven. This weekend just reminds me of all that awaits those who love Jesus Christ. I know that this weekend was the tiniest hint of what it’s going to be like. But even that hint is enough to remind me to keep looking up. We’re not Home yet but there’ll come a time we will be. It’s going to be really great!

He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming quickly.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. (Revelation 22:20)