Nothing Ventured, Everything Gained

I described my personal battles and weaknesses.  I shared my doubts and daily struggles.  I told them the lies Satan uses to distract me.  I confessed my lack of humility.  And why not?  It was easy.  I was from out of town.  I wasn’t worried about affecting my “ relationships” with these guys.  There was no risk.  I was, for all practical purposes, anonymous.

When that session was over, a couple of the guys hung back to talk.  They had experienced similar struggles and setbacks.  In the subsequent the small group sessions, we learned more about each other and the common challenges we face.  Now, weeks later, we continue to stay in touch.  What began as a weekend of anonymity produced the beginning of some wonderful friendships.

Would this have happened at a local retreat?  Probably not.  I would have been too guarded.  I would have worried about my reputation, my “standing” in the church, my image in the neighborhood.  When I realized that, I was disappointed with myself.  I know God wants me to drop that act.  When I pretend to have it all “together”, I miss opportunities to share my faith, offer support to others, and benefit from the strength of others.  Every day is a “unique opportunity” to connect - at church, at work, at school, everywhere.  But it requires honesty, humility, and trust in God.

Humility has tremendous benefits.  Why did it take a trip out of town to remind me of that?  Casting off pride and clinging to God is the hallmark of a solid Christian.  I must learn to embrace my weakness and dependency as gifts.  They force me to look outside myself and my skills for support and guidance.  I must learn to depend on God the Father as the spiritual child that I am, and I pray I will have the sense to surrender more of my self reliance to Him each day.