Conversations that matter (Joy returns to school :)

This week is rather quiet around the retreat house.  I (Joy) left home early Friday morning, kissed my husband good-bye, and left for my destination - Glen Eyrie retreat and conference center - in beautiful Colorado Springs, CO.  I have been hear before in October of 09 when I was part of NewWay Ministries School of Spiritual Direction Class #33.  (or SSD)   (for more info, check out www.newwayministries.org)  This ministry is under the direction of Dr. Larry Crabb (or just Larry as we call him this week, which I might add is somehow hard for me to do! lol)

We were asked to bring back our manuals for this week - which is called Next Step. And hidden in the back of my manual, I see my handwriting and these words, written four years ago:  "I come with no expectations other than a strong sense that God had something big in store for me personally and in regards to future ministry."

Seeing those words written four years ago, as well as thinking over some of what we heard the first night of school on Friday night, did a few things (I wrote about this in my personal blog www.thoughtsfromacountrymouse.blogspot.com)

But I think the overriding thing was that I stood in awe of what God has done in my life, through me, and often I am sure - in spite of me!!  I stand in awe of the healing that has taken place - and the brokenness that I was in, and how God has restore the shattered pieces of my life (and our life as a family following the silent birth of our first born grandchild).   I stood in all as I remembered and recalled the faithfulness of God to us.

The other thing that I stand in amazement at was how God took these last 4 years, and it was full of soul searching, and pain, and forgiveness and change.  It was full of adventure and risk and learning to live fully in what God had in store for me.  It was years full of building, and building and building some more, and in God's timing, seeing this ministry come to the point of starting - 13 years after God gave me the vision for it.

I stand in awe Lord .... I stand in awe of your marvelous works!

So, as I said, I am back at school.  I have come to experience in my life, the fact that we are often in conversations.  Some of it is merely fluffy - not even scratching below the first coat!  I want (and I believe I have already experienced that women/men want) "conversations that matter!"
Our focus this week is on what does it mean to engage in conversations that matter - and to bring the Trinity into our relational world.

I am here, in this beautiful setting, taking it in, asking questions, spending time in "quads" talking and unpacking what we have learned.  I am here being led into worship that is about lament and living.  I am here and involved in meaningful conversation, fully aware of God in our midst.  There is no words to describe the joy within my soul - as I seek, and ask, and listen (and repeat it all) and go off to sleep with thoughts running through my being.

The ministry that I referred to in my quote from SSD 2009 ... that is the ministry God has called us to - Women Refreshed at the Well.  And it is my joy and great delight to anticipate the meaningful conversations that will take place, and have already taken place in our ministry house.
God is at work - to Him be the glory!

Happenings around the Well :)

Joy writes:

It has been far too long since I have blogged, and since I am the only one posting here - it means that I need to get going on something!  So I thought I would fill you in on the happenings around here!

God continues to grow us, and stretch us in ways that I really don't think I ever thought about NOR was I prepared for.  Someone the other day said something about my "team" to which I laughed and said "right now, it is a team of 1" as I am the chief cook and bottle washer, and laundry gal, and bed maker (just stripped 5 beds and have a wash going as I type) ...  I love it when I get a hand doing the beds because it just takes that much less time when I don't have to go from one side to the other.
I am definitely stretching with God!  I thank Him for the opportunity to serve Him in this way!
I think we are seeing just merely the tip of something that is going to be really BIG for Him.  Yeah Jesus (usually when I say this with my grandkids, we also clap and cheer and raise our hands in the air! So imagine me doing that!!)

Alvin (husband aka Noah) has been working on (let's see if I can remember) ... more landscaping, putting gravel into the garage (until we pour next  year)  - so now we can park inside!  He has also been working on the 3 season sun room (which will double as a cold room for Christmas baking).  He also made a better walk/stairway in the front.  Never NEVER a dull moment!  Oh and yes, we laid some sod in the garden.  He said I only complained a little!!

I have had the great joy of hosting groups (for the Listening to God training and also the afternoon session) and a big Leadership Group from Eastview Community Church (our home church).  Also, a few single retreaters, as well as just this past weekend, a group of 8 women (4 of which were here in June).  This marked the first "return visit" for four of the women.  It was wonderful to hear some music wafting down from the Sanctuary during their worship time.  I will admit that originally I thought about hosting 5 women at a time, but had never really thought I would be hosting small women's retreats, and leadership retreats (men and women).  Right now, as I type I have a hot pad across my lower back, and my legs are aching right to the toes!  It makes for a long day but really, it is all worth it.  God continues to stretch me!

We have also hosted a Wednesday morning group, and a Wednesday evening group - and we did SACRED SECRETS by Beth Moore.  The morning group was just two others besides myself - so our conversation and time together looked much different than the evening group.  HOWEVER it was a great joy to meet with and study the Word of God together morning AND evening!  It is hard to find the "best" day to do a study.

It is starting to look a lot like winter is very very close!  The trees are pretty bare and the wind howls at times.  (Actually there were a few coyotes outside our house the other night, and they were howling too!)  The other day I asked Audrey (friend) if she would consider decorating again for me - and she said yes!  I love Christmas, and love it even more when someone else decorates the house for me!! And Audrey is very talented!!  She is going to do this while I am away at school ... which is just 5 sleeps away.

Yes, 5 SLEEPS until I get on a plane and head to Next Step School of Spiritual Direction under the leadership of Dr. Larry Crabb and NewWay Ministries.  I can hardly wait - although there is much to do in a short time.  There is NO time for any extras!!  (should have told my tooth that!  yesterday I realized that the crowned tooth is very very wiggly, so I head to the dentist tomorrow morning!)

I had the great joy to speak at Winnipeg Evangelical Free church, at the Coffee Connection.  It was wonderful to meet the women there, and to have a chance to share my story and the call to this ministry, with those in attendance.  As I watched my slide show, I was again in awe of what God has done and is doing, and give Him the glory for it all!  

The thing that is in the near future is "Celebrate Advent at the Well" - which will be a meditative/reflection stations in the house, and then refreshments at the end.  It will be December 15 to the 17th, in the evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.  Plan to attend - there is no charge!  (There will be an opportunity to "gift" the ministry if you want to.  (We do issue tax receipts for donations).

So things are happening.  At this point, we have limited space for retreats in December.  Perhaps you are looking for a good gift for someone - we would love to sell you a gift certificate!! Give me a call or an email.

That is it for now!!

Coming together to train, to share, to pray, to listen!

On Friday the 6th of September - we partnered with the MARK Centre and hosted two events for women and men both.  We had 21 in the morning, including Steve (MARK Centre) and myself (Joy) and enjoyed the time together as we listened to the WORD, and allowed it to sink into the core of our beings.  And Steve did some training time with us, so that we would know how we can lead others into a time of Listening to God.

In the afternoon, there were17 of us (some stayed for both events, some only attended in the morning, and some only in the afternoon).  The afternoon was called "An Afternoon of Silence" and after some time with Steve - he sent us away - to be alone - and absolutely silent for about an hour and a half.  Then we got back together and shared some of our reflections together.

I thank God for the generosity of Steve Klassen's time and willingness to be one who walks alongside of our ministry, and the ability to sit and chat with him over coffee or a meal together.  It was a great privilege to host him.  It is my prayer that we will host our own events - of times of Listening to God.

MEN & WOMEN INVITED!!! REGISTER NOW!! An Afternoon of Silence: Slowing down to listen to God & YOUR EARS WILL HEAR: LISTENING to God training retreat

THESE EVENTS ARE OPEN TO MEN AND WOMEN ALIKE!!  JOIN US!!

We are so excited about partnering with the MARK Centre for these two special RETREAT EVENTS.  REGISTER NOW - SPACE IS LIMITED!!  

An Afternoon of Silence: Slowing down to listen to God

When:  Friday afternoon, September 6th (AFTERNOON)

Held at: Women Refreshed at the Well - 5839 Henderson Hwy

Time:  1:00 to 4:00 pm (Coffee from 12:30 - 1:00 pm)

Cost:  $20 

Take some time to slow down the pace and listen for God’s voice and activity in your life. This afternoon of silence will be guided by Steve Klassen, director of the MARK Centre (www.markcentre.org), a ministry that is designed to help people hear God’s voice. Listening tools will be provided, an orientation and debrief will take place, but most of the time will be spent in silence.

TRAINING RETREAT :  YOUR EARS WILL HEAR:  LISTENING to God training Session

When:   Friday, September 6th, 2013 (MORNING)

Held at:  Women Refreshed at the Well - 5839 Henderson Hwy

Time:   Coffee at 8:30 a.m.  

Training from 9 am to 12 noon

Cost:  $30 including a workbook or $20 without a workbook

Do you long to hear God’s voice more clearly and more often? Do you want to be equipped to lead others in listening as well? Set aside this time to be trained to pay attention to God’s voice and his activity in your life. Immerse yourself in five common ways God is speaking to people today. Listen to God with others who have the same passion to hear God themselves and help people hear God’s voice in the midst of the busyness of life.

Steve Klassen directs the MARK Centre (www.markcentre.org) with his wife Evy. They have written a journal for listening to God called YOUR EARS WILL HEAR that they use on retreats and in training sessions in several countries. The overriding goal of the MARK Centre is to serve thousands who will inspire millions to embrace a lifestyle of listening to God. Steve will be guiding this training session that will include practical tools for listening to God and helping others do the same. You will have the opportunity to listen to God and interact with Steve around effective ways you can help others hear God’s voice and embrace a lifestyle of listening.

If you would like to register for one session - or for both - please let us know as soon as possible via email, or call Joy @ 204-416-3531. (Leave a message if the machine comes on)   Space is limited.

Looking forward to hosting you!

Blessings,

Joy Klassen

Executive Director - Women Refreshed at the Well

Half Day Silent Retreat & Listening to God Training Session

Mark your calendars - and there will be more info to come within the next day.
Women Refreshed at the Well is partnering with the MARK Center to host two events, for women AND men both!  

We are excited to have Steve Klassen come to our ministry house - at 5839 Henderson Hwy,  and lead us in a half day SILENT retreat as well Steve will do a half-day training session called YOUR EARS WILL HEAR: Listening to God training session

More info will come - but the date of the two events is Friday, September 6th.

We have been blessed by our connection with the Mark Center and are really excited about Steve coming to guide these two half day events.

Check out the MARK Centre for yourself!

blessed!

As I write this, I am thinking back to today, when I was able to spend some time with J. as she retreated  in our home.  At one point, God moved me to tears, and all I could do was give her a hug.  I don't usually cry with those who come to take a spiritual retreat in our place.  But I was very moved today.
God does things like that!! lol

You see, right now, it is "work" whenever someone comes to retreat.  However, as I get up early to make breakfast, or as I set the table and spend time choosing which china to use, or where to set them for their meal, or when I fall into bed at the end of the day - tired but feeling extremely blessed because I know that THIS is right where God wants me.  This is what He spoke to me about in 2000.  This is what I "fastened my seat belt for" and it has been a ride which I just sense - is still continuing.

It is quite a feeling to feel that you are doing what God has called you to do.  Quite a feeling!
But the thing that continues to blow me away - is how I am SO BLESSED with each and every person that comes through the door to spiritually retreat!  SO BLESSED.

I am currently taking the fourth of four courses in Soul Care under the direction of Dr. Larry Crabb with NewWay Ministries.  I think having a SoulCare certificate will be an asset to the ministry.  I will finish my course and then go to spend an intense week in Colorado Springs, being taught by Dr. Crabb once again.  I can hardly wait!  And I believe that this training and understanding how to be a SoulCare provider - will be something that God has already been using in my interaction with people.  It is quite something to just "turn your chair toward one another" as Dr. Crabb describes it.

I think that some of the blessing that I have already received, comes from the fact that I get to pray for the person coming.  And throughout their stay - I can pray.  Praying is like breathing.  And I am so glad that God has called me to this aspect within the ministry.

I laugh at times about how God is making me into more of a "Martha" while being a "Mary" at the core of my being.  I don't think I really had a clue about how much he would grow the love for this ministry He has called me to,  in my heart.  It is really happening.  After 13 years - I continue to be in awe of what God has been doing - and what He has in store - only He knows.

But, as we continue to enjoy the "ride" - I know that I will continue to thank God for the blessing of each woman that comes through the door (and perhaps even some men!) I will continue to count my blessings!!  I will continue to thank God that I love to intercede on behalf of others, and to pray.  I will continue to pray for people - as I set the table for their meal - or as I get their bed made and room ready for their arrival - or as I witness them being renewed through the setting - I will continue to be blessed.
God is on the move here at Women Refreshed at the Well ... and He continues to take my breath away!

Blessed.  

That is my word for today.  

Absolutely BLESSED.

B ~ L ~ E ~ S ~ S ~ E ~ D

Imagining the Garden retreat space!!

This garden is way bigger than me!!  It is way bigger than Alvin!  It scares me silly!!  HOWEVER I already know that I actually don't mind digging out weeds a little at a time.  And I love the feel of soft warm black early on my hands.  And I love the color of the flowers, and the different greens of the trees.  We celebrated when the trees that we planted last year - all got buds on them.  YAY!!! They survived our long winter!!

At this point there is so much to do.  I know people have volunteered to garden - but I am not sure exactly how to put you to work yet.  Unless you want to weed.  I could give you a cold drink - and you could weed.  Somehow that sounds like a deal that many would not jump to the pump for!!

Maxine came and planted the containers for our deck.  She is going to come and work on the waterfall area too.  It seems like so much, and yet I see how, when taken a few steps at a time, it is not so overwhelming.  We look at the plan, and we dream.  We look out the window and we dream.  It is a work in progress.

Hmmm.... I wonder if that is how God sees us often?  I think it is.  None of us will every become perfect until we reach Heaven!!  HOWEVER in the meantime, I know it is my desire, to grow to be more and more like HIM with each and every day.  Sometimes I think I get stuck because perhaps I like where I am OR I get distracted, or complacent, or tired ... but then I am gently reminded how He is waiting to continue the journey with me.

I am so thankful that God never gives up on me!!  And how he continues to search me and know me - when I sit and when I lay and when I stand!!  God is so in love with me!! I am so thankful that He didn't put a timeline on me "Joy, you need to become mature and like me by this date" otherwise I would be SOOOOO in trouble.

However each day is a new day - and a chance to get into the Word more, to spend more time just talking with Jesus, to spend time meditating on who He is and how He has been so faithful - and to keep walking as He directs our paths!  One step at a time!!
I am so thankful that HIS mercies toward us are NEW every morning and together we can say O LORD, OUR LORD - great is your faithfulness!!  

So in the quietness of our home, I can retreat - with my bible, my journal, but really the most important thing is that I am with my LORD and I can spend time just being still and experiencing HIS presence, HIS voice and His touch on my life!  O Lord - thank you.

In His Grip,

joy

PS
One day, when our garden is done, it will be such an amazing place of solitude - to spend time with God.  I know that God loved gardens too - all you have to do is read Genesis about God walking in the garden of Eden in the cool of the evening!! (although I wonder if there were mosquitoes then!!)  AND just one look at creation and you know that the Garden of Eden must have been amazing!!  AND our garden will be too!!  It is a work in progress!!  We are thankful for Maxine who has planned it with His help!!