The sounds of voices singing worship to the Lord drifted from the warmth of the cozy bonfire, up into the chilly autumn night, and out across the dark lake. This bonfire has become a beloved tradition for students each year at our Fall Retreat. It is a night spent worshipping God in song and testimony- where any of the 100+ students present (more than have ever come to Fall Retreat before!) are welcome to stand and share about how God has been working in their lives over the weekend and semester. Each year at this event, lives are changed and college students come to know Christ personally as they recognize their sin and need for a Savior. For many, it is the first time they have ever really studied the Word or experienced Christian community. I (Jackie) couldn’t help but smile and give God praise as I heard just a few of the stories from students that evening: “I have not been this happy in a long time, and am so thankful. The Scripture we got into this weekend spoke to me and made me want to dig into my Bible. Learning about prayer and community and reading the Bible...it just made sense and I’m really excited!” “I came here knowing only 3 people. When I walked in instantly people were loving on me and wanting to know about me. The amount of love you showed me as an outsider was amazing and something I’ve never seen before in a group of Christians.” “Growing up a pastors kid I feel I know the Bible answers to a lot, but I’ve realized that having a personal relationship with God is different than just knowing the answers. Now in college I have to make these decisions for myself, and I’ve realized that my identity is not found in what other people think about me but what the Father says is true of me.” Fall Retreat is my favorite weekend of the fall semester, and I was so proud of the students who planned, organized, and ran the weekend…it was a truly student-ran event! Every year, lifelong friendships are formed and students have the opportunity to dive into God’s Word. This year, the students decided the theme for the weekend would be “More.” More Jesus. More Biblical community. More worship of a God who is truly More than we can ever fully imagine. For two beautiful fall days, we heard teaching about the importance of studying the Word, spending time in prayer, and pursuing Biblical community. I would imagine for many, it was the first time they have ever had the opportunity to set aside quiet, intentional time to read the Bible and spend time with God. I am confident that God is still at work in the hearts of those who gave up their weekend (time studying, watching football, going home to family etc.) to pursue Him, and I cannot wait to continue sharing their stories as He turns their hearts to Him. In Christ, Jake, Jackie, and Elaina
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