Retreat for One

First Corinthians chapter 13

One Friday evening, seventy-eight single adults arrived at the retreat center. For three days, they sang, played, studied, prayed, ate, laughed, shared sorrows and experienced joys. For example: Susan’s divorce was final three years ago, but tears still appeared at the mere mention of her former husband’s name. "What am I doing here?" she thought. "People will think I just want to meet men! Who am I kidding? Maybe I am here just to find a relationship."

Virginia confidently entered with three friends. Last year, she came as a depressed widow. Now, she’s full of joy, looking to share her healing experiences. Bill, a single parent, quietly sat in his car watching others go through the doors. "This is crazy!" he thought to himself. "Why did I let my preacher talk me into attending a singles retreat?"

Denise, a twenty-something career woman arrived excited about a weekend off and a chance to relax. Yet, she was also nervous. "Mom swears it will be wonderful, but the only singles groups I attended were full of bitter middle-aged divorcees looking to get even with their ex. I hope there are some fun people here my age," she thought.

Ron won the prize for most unique entrance, arriving in a long fake-mink coat, oversized sunglasses, and a red wig. Last year, he came to receive comfort from a difficult divorce. This year, he’s looking forward to renewing friendships, and influencing others.

As the guests registered, someone was there to warmly greet them and provide a welcome bag of goodies and information. A picture was taken, taped to an envelope and attached to the wall. Later, messages of love and encouragement were inserted.

Susan met Jan a single mother in the divorce recovery workshop. "I cannot believe someone has the same problems I have," Susan said to the group. During the Sunday worship service, they heard about the need to forgive others as God forgives them. Encouraged to receive communion with a friend, Jan and Susan came together.

Virginia and her three friends enjoyed working with a group making hats out of old newspapers. "I felt like a child playing in the sandbox," she said. Later they attended a workshop on prayer and formed a small group praying for others. Bill learned the importance of developing active listening skills. After the session, Bill could have retired to his room, but instead chose to join a group in the gym and play volleyball.

Ron the clown, became unofficial retreat counselor and wrote a poem: "God is our shelter. He is our friend. No matter how high the mountain or how deep the sea, it is God’s strength and grace that guides our path through the storms of life." Seventy-eight people left the retreat with envelopes full of love notes and hearts full of joy.

Prayer Challenge: Read 1 Corinthians chapter 13 again as if you were single.