May 17-One Day Retreat at The Grove in North San Diego

We had a wonderful day at The Grove yesterday. Martin Allen led our time of teaching and worship. We had eleven artists and creatives from Riverside, Orange, and San Diego counties attend the gathering. All of us pilgrims came for different reasons and were eager for the Lord to meet us at this beautiful property. We had times of solitude and time in community. I'm convinced God loves great food, otherwise why would He have given us tastebuds...so, to that end, we enjoyed a delicious feast (see photo!). At Grove gatherings, you will not leave hungry!I had an amazing experience when I sat alone smack dab in the middle of the avocado grove. The day was blazing hot, but a warm wind took the edge off the heat. As I sat in the Grove, the wind rushed up and created a shimmering effect of light green/dark green, which was contrasted by the undulating light movements on the brown tones of the dead leaves on the ground. The working and movement of the light was like sitting in the middle of an impressionist painting. God the Creator orchestrating this amazing display of color and light.

Here's a few comments by people who enjoyed the day:

"I came to get connected with other believers who have a vision for the arts."
Stephanie, photo-journalism major.

"The single most valuable experience of this retreat was the simplicity of it. Just getting away."
Brian, guitarist, drummer

"All of it was exactly what my heart and soul needed. Thank you!"
Jaime, singer/signer

I closed the day by leading a discussion about creativity and what makes our heart come alive. A few questions to consider: What truly makes your heart come alive? What creative gifts, talents and abilities has God given you and how are you enjoying them? What creative projects are you working on? And, if so, where are you stuck? What might God be saying in the 'stuckness?'

Would love to hear your thoughts...blessings!