Vineyard East Worship

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Oh yes, the pumpkins! But on the serious side – what was really good about the retreat was that we were broken up into groups of 8 to 10 for the whole retreat – and met about 4 times – our group broke in half, and we had time for each session to pray for one person in our group (we had four) – it was really good, because you could share stuff with these people – you knew they understood where you are coming from – and they were total (or almost total) strangers, so you didn’t have to worry about WHAT you shared – as Randy McCoy said at the beginning – ‘what’s said at Ridgecrest stays at Ridgecrest’ – and it was a relief to share things that were truly burdening you and not worry about it becoming a slander or gossip issue. It was freeing to know that people were praying for you. And some of these people, I know I will be in contact with, and will be able to count on to ‘be there’ about things. The Lord knew what he meant when he said that it is not good that man be alone. Just having one person to be able to open up to is a very freeing thing! It was good!

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Yes, and she had this thing about pumpkins.

Don’t forget about the pumpkins!!!!

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I was really thrilled to be with so many mature Christians – leaders, all, and serious musicians as well. The thing that was missing from the whole 4 days was ego. No one was intent of self promotion, ability show-offs, or posturing for who’s the whateverest of what they imagine themselves. You could safely let your guard down.

The other thing I observed was that it took about 0ne and a half worships before most of us could stop doing the mental overseeing and cut loose inworship – I dont know if I said that right. For me, Im always ‘on watch’ – keeping an eye out while worshipping – seeing if there is something that would encourage someone else on – if someone is hurting. I dont think I was the only one. It was refreshing and fun to just worship without all the responsibility!

I know there is more – OH!!!!! The FUN! I will gladly hang with Sarah Elmer any time. We were taking notes on the things that were coming out of her mouth — what was that ‘middle aged guy’ thing??? I want to use it on my husband!

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hi eric (and chris)!

it was great to hang out with you too! i think we should get badges that say NERG. =0)

i think the thing that i’ve been thinking about most is what terry and andy said about character…greater talent/anointing requires greater character if you don’t want to get seriously messed up. (i’m paraphrasing…haha!)

i have, for a long time, been asking God for more anointing in a rather casual way. i was challenged last week to be more responsible with what has been given to me and to be careful of what i ask for!

the retreat was really great in providing a time of rest and community-building, but it was also very sobering for me.

i’m still processing a lot, so i’ll prolly write again soon…

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someone post some thoughts/experiences. I wish i couldve made it and would really like to hear how it went. Thanks eric!