During February, I was on sabbatical from the work I do with the Institute for Cultural Communicators. Last year, I dipped my toe into a silent retreat practice with a 24-hour retreat and wanted to do an extended version this year. I traveled to a retreat center in Massachusetts to experience a five-day silent retreat.
In my church and ministry circles, the idea of a silent retreat seems little discussed. I remember one dear friend decades ago telling me with great enthusiasm of her silent retreat experience. Since then, I can count on one hand the conversations where I heard any talk of a silent retreat. During this most recent experience, I was in the younger age range of retreat participants. I wonder if it was because of my earlier life stage of bringing up a family or set on a career path.
As I talked about my upcoming silent retreat, the majority response from co-workers and friends about my plans was envy mixed with doubt. Envy as they relished the idea of a retreat but doubted for their and my ability to be silent for that long.
I think the unknown experience with extended silence makes the idea challenging. Like a workout to the body, if we aren’t taking small steps outside of our comfort zone, a giant leap is an overwhelming challenge. But even that metaphor breaks down because making space for God isn’t about leveling up or playing varsity. It is just a discerning step with God leading you from where you are to where you want to be.
I share a little bit more of my retreat in the graphic below. May it help you consider where and how to find space on your journey. I’d be glad to talk to you if you feel drawn to retreat. Please reach out.
I love the thought of your speaking French with a woman from Haiti! I like “musings at work for you.” THANK YOU! I always enjoy your musings.
Grateful for our mutual LOVE of words and firm confidence that our words matter and can speak life to a wide circle. Thanks.
I was wondering what to read as i head into vacation next week. Now I know – and just ordered this book! Seems like I took another book you recommended when I headed out a few years ago. That book reset my perspective and prepared me for international experiences. I’m excited to see the impact of this book. (I find that sometimes the older books go deeper….)
Thanks for always sharing your steps outside your comfort zone. They are inspiring and encouraging!
Would love to hear how this resource proved fruitful for you! Excited!
I love how you give us ideas to ponder, share your learnings, AND give us links to empower us to explore going deeper, too!
We are better together. Always appreciate the mutual journey we are on as we pursue space for God.