power rangers retreat - power of forgiveness, prayer, prescence

Jan.16.2o11

     I don't think I learned anything particularly new but definitely much needed reminders to straighten myself out. The overall theme was Power Rangers, accompanied by a 3-part message: power of forgiveness, power of prayer, and power of presence. I felt empowered by the end, for sure.
     Is it easier to ask for forgiveness or to forgive someone? I guess for me, it's relatively easier to forgive than ask for forgiveness but I think it depends on who it is. What I do know for sure, is that I find it hardest to forgive myself after someone has already forgiven me. How I see it, the act of forgiving bears the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23, one fruit encompassing multiple characteristics). Love, kindness, goodness, faithfulness are namely the reasons/causes for the act of forgiving. Then the act itself requires patience, self-control and most importantly gentleness (relationships are so fragile, in the sense that they are generally hard to establish but easily broken). Peace and joy are the most dominant after forgiving/being forgiven. Forgiveness is definitely no simple matter.
     Why do we need to pray when God is an all-knowing God who knows my every thought even before I know myself? God waits upon our prayers before He works. Jesus himself put a lot of emphasis on prayer and exemplified it by constantly making alone time to pray. Essentially, prayer is the most important and fundamental aspect of the spiritual life. How can you maintain/establish a relationship without any conversing? Prayer is speaking to God, uplifting our thanks, adoration, respect, burdens, fears, worries, sins, all to Him. Unlike conversations among people, we will never be misunderstood because God knows our heart. And when we don't know what to say or mumble, the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf.
     What does Immanuel mean? What does 'God with us' mean? It means we no longer fear (cowardly), are no longer lonely. It means peaceful sleep and never facing anything alone (unless you choose to). Not by sight nor sound nor feeling but by faith that I know God is with me. I'm very gracious for this weekend :] I realize that I really need to work on humility and word choice. Everyone is so humble even when they've put so much effort into making something happen. This is truly what it means in Matthew 5:16, to "let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."
     Praise God for He has called two more people into giving their lives to work for His kingdom. I admire their willingness to serve, their focus on Christ, their care for others. The least and the most I can do for them is really just to keep them in my prayers. What a blessed weekend it has been.
My commitment from this retreat:

I up lift my entire future into Your hand because I know what's best for me is what you have in store for me. For some reason I keep making my own plans, setting myself up for disappointment when my plans are shattered. I know the calling You have for me and I have accepted. Please continue to guide me and help me strive towards my purpose in life... For all I am and all I have is Yours alone, aside from You I have no other god. Each day is a new beginning, a new life... then why shouldn't I renew my promise to you each day? Thank you God, for everything.