To disciple means to guide (someone) in becoming a follower of Jesus. That was the goal and the plan this weekend. I went into this weekend putting my all into it for the 11 girls that I would be discipling over the two-day retreat. I had my plans, supplies, and everything else that you can think of ready to just pour into the girls. And I did but more than that THEY poured into me and discipled me.
All weekend the girls would astound me with either their amazing positive joyful attitudes or their answers to hard questions that Ash and I asked. So many times I had to get it in my head that I was with middle School girls. I know that the Lord picked each one of those 11 to be there this weekend. And not just to learn and grow closer to Him. But to teach me, love me, encourage me and just have fun with me.
Last night we had a great time of encouragement and praying. All weekend we had encouragement mailboxes that we could write each other a note and “mail” it to them. Last night we opened up our mail and got to find out how much we are loved and how cool the others think we are. Some of the girls weren’t able to write all the notes that they wanted to so we went around that room and told them out loud. It was a sweet time where I got to see these girls point out gifts and strengths in each other and lift them up. I loved seeing how much each of them mean to the others.
The girls also just kept saying how much they were thankful to have Ash and I there and lead the weekend and even teach them on Sundays (Ash and I lead there class on Sunday mornings) and how much they learned from us. They kept saying that it will stink when we leave and how they don’t want us to. This tore at my heart. I had no Idea how much of an impact I had on them. I pray everyday that they are able to learn at least one thing every time I teach them. I pray that I will be successful in helping them grow closer to Christ. And last night all those prayers were confirmed. Those who I have been praying for told me that I have and always will have an impact on them, that they have learned so much from me told me. I cried. That has been the one thing that I have wanted this year. To be used in that group to change lives. And I have.
I praise and thank God for all the times this weekend that I was able to love on those 11 girls and even more than that I thank Him for loving me thru them. It shocked me. I did not expect that. The Lord works in amazing, crazy ways.
Below are some pictures of the weekend. Enjoy.
I am so proud of you! Thanks for giving your all to these young lives and loving on them. When we lead, we learn so much about ourselves. I do see Christ through you.
I am glad that all went well and god was with you and made it the best ever. God bless and talk to you soon.
You are so good with those girls! You did good!