5.01.2013

On the joy of inRL

Last Saturday, 6000+ women worldwide watched (in)courage's webcasts during inRL (in Real Life). They watched on their own, or in small groups of close friends, or large groups of strangers. Anna and I hosted forty women at her church; about half from the congregation, half from the Twin Cities, even a few from hours away. 

Many of us find it easier to interact on Facebook, Twitter, or blog comment boxes. Real life is more complicated; harder; messier. Real life asks more of us.

But we serve a God who didn't just speak His commands down from the mountain. He came to be with us. And so we came to be with each other.

And in the midst of our real, hard lives -- God showed up.
 

 
 
 
 
 He challenged us to share our brokenness. As we watched the videos and discussed the challenges of staying in community, we saw our stories reflected in each other. We realized that maybe Jesus could use those walled-off places of our hearts to encourage others. And we went through plenty of tissues.

He inspired us to offer friendship and mentorship. Even during our pre-party on Twitter, these women were encouraging each other and planning hugs! I'm sure there were awkward moments on Saturday, but I was amazed at how quickly the conversation began to flow. By Monday morning, two of the women set up a Facebook group to continue our conversations and set up future events. Only God could bring such bravery and boldness to His daughters!

He lit flames of joy in our weary hearts. It's been a long, cold winter and spring in Minnesota. Many of us have been dealing with grief, depression, and other struggles. And we shared plenty of tears. But by the time we ended the day with worship, I could tell that God had multiplied our joy as he bound our hearts together.





"How good and pleasant it is when God’s
people live together in unity! ...
For there the Lord bestows his blessing,
even life forevermore."
Psalm 133:1, 3b
 

I can't wait to see what God continues to do through these beautiful women and the connections they made at inRL! Curious? Read more posts from the Minnesota ladies here, here and here.

How has God blessed you through staying in real-life community?

Posted by at

4 comments:

  1. Nikki @ SimplystrivingMay 1, 2013 at 10:46 PM

    I was honored to be there (you two know how to throw a party!) :)
    but really, over all the chocolate and laughter and hugs and awkwardness, it was God who reigned supreme in that place. It's no wonder we want more;) {HUGS}

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. AmandaMay 2, 2013 at 11:07 AM

      Yes! That's exactly how I felt. It was a day about HIM, not about us. I'm so glad we got to hug in person & am looking forward to seeing you again soon! :)

      Delete
  2. UnknownMay 2, 2013 at 10:14 AM

    Oh man. Awkward picture of me...AWK.
    But also good pictures of some new friends!! It was a FANTASTIC time! What a great post and can't wait to read the other MN posts :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. AmandaMay 2, 2013 at 11:05 AM

      Alyssa, meeting you was one of my favorite parts of the day! I love how *real* you were, and how you weren't afraid to be silly. :) I hope we can get together again soon!

      Delete

I love to hear from you!

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)