One with the Dirt

That's the theme of our not quite annual ("occasional" probably describes it best!) singles ministry camping trip.

I for one am not much of a camper, but since I have such good friends, once every few years I do consent to go with them. I am actually really looking forward to this year's trip. It will be great to get away, hang out with friends and soak up the fresh air and sunshine.

This year it's at Colo, Iowa and we've got (I think) 12 hearty souls who are roughing it with us. This is exactly what we wanted to have come out of last summer's retreat ... relationship building by just doing stuff together. I think that's why I am so much more excited about it this time around (that and it will be day time highs of mid 60s, overnight lows in the low 40s and no bugs or humidity to speak of).

I can't wait to see the friends I made at the retreat and see how life's been going since July.

I want to hear about their plans for the fall and maybe about upcoming holiday traditions.

I want to play cards and take part in the looming "Boggle throw down" (board games can get out of hand with our group :o)

I want to talk to them about what God's been doing in their lives and share what He's been teaching me.

That's totally a God-thing too. Normally, I'm happy just keeping everything to myself. But I'll share this one thing I've been learning lately ... its not good to isolate yourself. Its so much easier to succumb to negative thoughts and slide down that slippery slope into depression or anger (anger tends to be my reaction of choice) when you don't have any one around or you keep them at arm's length.

I don't think that's how God wants us to be any way. Why would there be so many scriptures on fellowship , encouraging and building each other up and carrying each others burdens. You can't do that for others in isolation and others can't do that for you if you isolate yourself.

So look for opportunities to fellowship. Maybe you can't join in a One With The Dirt weekend camping extravaganza, but you can go to lunch with a friend, meet for coffee, or just chat on the phone.

Be intentional about fellowship.

Be aware of opportunities God places before you.

Be open to things you might not normally do (like a One With The Dirt weekend camping extravaganza :o)

But most of all, have fun!



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