Eight months ago I visited this beautiful chateau, the summer home of the first Czechoslovakian president, located in what is now Slovakia. After weeks of searching, it was exactly what I'd hoped to find.
I sat at a table outside in this courtyard with my JV teammate, Amy, dreaming about our annual Josiah Venture ladies retreat that we hoped would be in this place in March.
Several months later all the arrangements had been made, and we knew this year's retreat would be held here. I was so excited as I thought about bringing the ladies here to this special place for a time of teaching, refreshment, and soul nourishment.
Little did I know I wouldn't be there with them for the first time in twenty years.
Originally Dave and I planned to be back in Czech by this time so that I could be at the retreat. But later we found that I needed to stay in the States for six consecutive months to renew my Social Security status. So I am not there.
The ladies arrived today, 53 of them from all corners of Central and Eastern Europe where they serve.
As I think of them tucked away in this magnificent place, I pray that they will be deeply refreshed by all that is planned for them. I am so proud of my JV sisters and how they sacrifice, give of themselves, share their lives, and live out the Gospel message in the places where God has them.
I miss these dear women that I normally share life with!! I know there will be laughter, tears, sweet conversation, meaningful worship, and communion with the Lord during their days at the chateau.
Will you pray for them? Pray that He would give each of them just what they need this week as they spend time with each other, and with Him in these coming days. They will be there until Friday.
Thanks so much for posting these pictures (:
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