This past week at a INN Student Leadership retreat, the first task we had was to take 45 minutes and write out our story. I've shared my testimony a handful of times, but something about the idea of writing a story, a narrative, gave it a whole new spin. I noticed that testimonies, at least in the Christian communities i've been a part of, tend to focus just on your relationship with Christ, and leave out the people and events that shape your day-to-day life and have made you the person and hopefully disciple you are today. It needs to include everything, even the things that may seem separate from God. Because he toiled and planned out your story--a perfect, exciting, intricate, thrilling narrative-- long before we were made. And really, everything in your life points back to him.
I realized on the car ride home from the retreat that I have so many close friends who I have never heard their stories. Sure, I may have been around for certain chunks in their life, but very rarely have I heard their perspective of their life as a whole, and what stands out to them as important.
So I encourage you to start writing your story. After a while you'll see patterns and themes that reflect Christ's intricate hand and planning. It seems vital to do, not just for yourself, but so you can share wisdom and lessons with each other.
How I'd love to share a cup of coffee with you in front of a warm fire and hear yours sometime.
P.S. I essentially just got paid for 4 hours of watching Lost and blogging. This is the life.
4 comments:
I will take you up on that offer, anytime.
I love knowing you.
I was just talking to my dad about this yesterday. At the end of a life, which is so short but holds so much, what will still be significant? Which relationships, what events, which seasons will we hold onto and cherish and say THIS...THIS was my life.
This summer has been one of the most significant of my life. You were a part of it.
Erin, of the people I wrote down by name of who has had the biggest impact on my life, you were one of the few.
Lets do it.
i'm so glad you're in process of writing your narrative, few of us take time to do so.
have you heard of the book, "to be told" by dan allender? it's this same kind of concept.
You are an incredible writer. Have I ever told you this my friend? LOVE
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