Why Refuge? (#RefugeSSI)
This morning I was preparing an upcoming blog post to be published this weekend on my personal blog. I was describing the basics of Refuge.
As I typed I realized I was writing a synopsis of Refuge and why it’s so special. As I proofed over these points I began to experience a warmth and peace. It was confirmation that this event is “plain, ole’ right”. It’s a God-thing. He smiles on it and I believe His favor is with us.
Here are the bullet points. I hope they inspire you as well.
- We will have some amazing meals because I think that there is something special when we “break bread” together in fellowship and community. Amazing meals should always be a hallmark of Refuge.
- We will have some intimate times of worship because nothing is better than a bunch of creative people gathering and expressing their music and songs back to the Creator who gave them.
- We will have some inspiring conversations with our keynote speakers. Our sessions aren’t keynote lectures. Rather, they are thought provoking, heartfelt conversations in a group that is large enough to be diverse, yet intimate enough to be safe and vulnerable.
- We will have extended times of rest and recreation because our bodies need time to be rejuvenated. If the “flesh is weak”, even when the spirit is willing, we can’t lead effectively.
- We will enjoy creation because God has blessed me to live on an amazingly beautiful island on the Atlantic ocean and few things can inspire us to see God like his beautiful creation.
- We will celebrate community because we’re intentional about keeping our group small and social. Refuge is an opportunity to establish long term relationships with like-minded people who can walk the journey with you.
It’s less than a week away for Refuge 2013. We’re putting the finishing touches on the event and I’m praying that the Holy Spirit is preparing those who will be joining us.
For now, I raise my “WakeUp Coffee” cup to you in anticipation of your arrival. Let the peace begin.
For the Kingdom,
Fred McKinnon
