“With all the transitions you’ve experienced recently, you could use a debrief.” This was the invitation from the retreat host.
I had heard about the benefits of missionaries going through the debrief process but had not considered that I might be due for one also. I decided it was time to do some first-hand research. Both for my own benefit and to understand what a ministry leader would experience.
As the hosts greeted me, they warned me there was an absolute rule for my visit. “You cannot help wash dishes, do laundry, clean, cook meals, etc. We are here to take care of you.” One day I thought I would get a snack from my car and got lovingly scolded for not asking for help!
We began each day with worship and prayer. Then we transitioned to a series of Biblical teachings, transparent conversations, assignments, more prayer and ample time for me to process and work through the assignments.
It was a long week and well worth all the work I did. As I dove into the work, it seemed like I had been meandering down the yellow brick road. Like Dorothy in Oz, I had experienced companions and distractions that helped some and also hindered my spiritual and ministry progress.
My hosts helped me recover the sense of God’s presence and power that had been available all along. I again remembered Dorothy and her ruby red shoes – the power to reach her destination that she had all along the way. As I refocused on God, I came away rested by facing, forgiving and laying aside things that had built up in my soul.
The entire experience brought about a greater understanding of the benefits of the debriefing process. I now know how important it is to regularly unburden one’s soul and to rest.
In addition to personal encouragement, I received two others: We have chosen well to support retreats for others at the location I visited and we must roll up our sleeves to bring about our own guest house.
