I know I don't post as often as I should here, but I do read the posts (I think that is called "lurking"- sorry!) and I do pray for you all. However, I really wanted to come here and share about our Encounter Retreat this weekend.
Craig and I hosted an Encounter Retreat here in Chicago this past weekend. I have to tell you, it was really powerful. This retreat is generally geared toward new believers or those who have constant set backs in their walk with Christ, however, it is something we encourage everyone to experience an Encounter at least once.
The one thing I really wanted to share about was the time we shared with the attendees as they brought up slips of paper they had written their "sins" on- things they continued to struggle with or things they felt condemned by. Each attendee brought up their slip, was handed a nail and a hammer as they stood before a 12 foot wooden cross. As powerful worship music played they nailed their sins to the cross as they were encouraged and supported by the leaders and other attendees. I wept openly with these individuals as I witnessed somthing I considered so intimate and personal between them and the Savior. I watched literally as years seemed to come off of people's faces and weights fell off of shoulders with each pound of the hammer. Some hammered diligently and with a quiet focus, and some pounded the nail hard and fast, but each cried tears of thanks, joy, and a new found freedom.
I had every intention of taking photos during the entire retreat, but there was this revrent awe that held me back because I hadn't asked permission first. We did get a few pictures, but I really wanted to capture what took place. Next time we will ask permission first.
PastorT: The retreat sounds wonderful. I'm so glad it was such a success.
We've had special Good Friday services where we've had a cross with nails already nailed in the boards. People would then come up & put their paper through the nails. I can really see how more powerful it would be for someone to actually hammer/nail themselves.
