War of the Worlds Men's Retreat

From Dallas, Denver, St. Louis, Topeka, and Wichita, the men began to check in at the Morning Star Ranch registration table. Some showed up in full fatigues. Some came hungry, others nervous, and some so excited they couldn't stand still. It was our family’s first retreat with World Impact, so we shared their emotions. I was nervous and excited; I paced back and forth, shook hands, introduced myself, and even tossed out a few man hugs. With all of the energy bouncing around, you knew something big was happening, and it was--we were on the cusp of Men’s Retreat 2012!


The theme for the weekend was War of the Worlds, one that really hit the men right where they were. The tone was set for an energy-intense weekend. After dinner on Friday night, we were off to the first session. The bonding began immediately as we crammed 120 men into the pavilion. The praise band rocked it out as did Dr. Don Davis with the teaching. You know it was good stuff when the teaching ran over by an hour and the men came out talking about how awesome it was.


There were three main sessions, some breakout groups about church planting in the city, games, fishing, softball, high ropes activities, a campfire with s’mores, and sharing some great meals together. As is often the case for me, the best part about the weekend was watching the men engage with one another in meaningful conversation late into the night. There were men at various points in their spiritual journeys, non-Christians and rock-solid believers. To see two men talking and praying together about Christ is the picture of true manhood.

As the weekend wrapped up, I was encouraged to see how the camp can be used for effective ministry. It provides an opportunity for those who come from urban environments to encounter God in a unique way. It also revealed three specific prayer requests that come with every camp and retreat.

1. For the pastors and leaders of those who came out to the retreat: please pray that God keeps them filled up for the work at hand.


2. For those who attended the retreat: please pray that their lives and hearts are a reflection of God’s calling in their lives. Also pray for protection as they head back into the urban areas.

3. For our volunteers and staff: please pray that they are encouraged in their work for His Kingdom. Also pray that God continues to provide the camp with those ready to serve.

Blessings,
Eric and Sunshine Leach