Wild Hearts - Part 1

First, I want to thank everyone who commented yesterday. I am constantly blown away by the ways that God works in and through the body of Christ. Thank you for standing alongside; for the virtual hugs, the Scriptures, and the encouragement that was offered. He is renewing me with His love and grace - part of which flowed through many of you in the comment section yesterday.

This past weekend my husband and son went on a "Wild Heart Weekend." A group of men and their boys from our church retreated to a lodge away from the business of everyday life and spent some time being intentional about bonding - with each other and with God.

I don't believe enough can be said about the impact this kind of weekend has on the lives of fathers and sons.

Surrounded by a company of men, my son was inspired to attempt things he had never accomplished and became more confident in things he was already familiar with. He got to see grown men singing praises to their Father around a campfire, sharing burdens and praying with one another, and just goofing off and having fun together.

He came home a little braver, a little stronger, a little more independent, and along with some very large bug bites; an increased knowledge that he was loved and valued by his father.

Here is my son climbing the rock wall:
Making it to the top:
Coming down:

Here he is crossing to do the zip line:
A part of the company of men, my husband was encouraged and inspired in his roles as a man, a father, and a son himself. He was refreshed, energized, and at peace with the wild heart that God has bestowed upon him. There was time on the drive to talk and to listen to the heart of his 7 year old. There were moments to be able to praise, encourage, and speak life into his son. There were opportunities to speak openly with other men about the struggles of this life. There were moments to gaze at the stars and know the presence of His Heavenly Father.

He came home a little braver, a little stronger, a little less dependent on the voices of the world, and along with some very large bug bites; an increased knowledge that he was loved and valued by his Father.
More "retreat" thoughts to come in Part 2.

May you be strengthened through His love & grace today!

Shanda