The Habit of Withdrawing …with God

Dear LFP Church Family and Friends,

I recently had the experience of an annual retreat with a group of pastors that I have been together with for 26 years. We affectionately refer to ourselves as the HupoMen in reference to a favorite New Testament word, hupomeno, which means "to remain under; perservere." Some of you were praying for us, and we thank you!

My friend Ed practices a form of contemplative photography and keeps a blog -- you might be interested in what he wrote about our time together --  Hope / Hupo

As I am pondering this coming weekend's text on the Transfiguration (Mark 9) I've been thinking of the pattern of engagement and withdrawal. This annual practice of withdrawal with this group of guys has been so instrumental for me, so lifegiving.

Turns out that Jesus like to get away to mountains, boats, and lonely places. What about you?

Do you have a habit of withdrawal, of pulling away where you can pray and meet with God?

May I suggest a great opportunity coming up on Saturday, April 18, 9am to 1pm?

This prayer retreat will be a great time to step aside, to learn from a great teacher, share some conversation at tables, and plenty of individual time. I hope you'll consider. We'll share more about this opportunity in the weeks to come.

I also look forward to talking with you about this Transfiguration story and the implications for our lives as we gather this weekend in worship.

With joy in the journey (in this wilderness season),

Pastor Jeff