We had all 6 of our kids home for Christmas. At first it was a frankly difficult adjustment getting used to all those people (and their stuff) back under one roof. But then when it was time to say goodbye, it was equally difficult watching them go.
I found myself wanting to live the last few hours in slow motion, taking advantage of those final meals and memories. Paying extra attention and relishing every last little bit of their company so that once they are far, far away I can relive those precious moments in my heart.
That’s what I imagine John 13-17 was like for the disciples. How often did they mentally replay those final, sweet memories with Jesus? How much they must’ve cherished the beloved words he shared with them mere hours before his execution.
One of the final instructions Jesus gave was, “Abide in me.” Abide. Remain. Dwell. Continue. Tarry. Endure. The idea is staying. Strong’s concordance definition says: “Staying in a given place, state, relation, or expectancy.” Take off your coat and stay awhile. Our world doesn’t like to slow down and tarry. But we need to. And Jesus told us to.
This year we are hosting a weekend event to give you the opportunity to do just that. To take off your coat and stay awhile with Jesus. For once to abide and continue and remain in your time with Him. To seek His presence for longer than a 30 minute quiet time before rushing off to the next thing.
This event is called AbideCR. It will take place on February 11-12, 2022, hosted at New Covenant. Friday evening and all day on Saturday, you will have extended time to pray, journal, learn, sing, reflect, discuss, and bask in the presence of Almighty God. It’s going to be amazing.
We are creating a unique and special space for you to drink deeply of the goodness of God. Additionally, we have partnered with local businesses Feedwell Kitchen & Bakery, The Hip-Stir and Crumbl Cookies to make sure you feed your body as well as your soul. Think of it as a spiritual retreat and a night out and a staycation all in one.
We are linking arms with great leaders from many area churches who will bring solid biblical teaching, passionate worship, and a heart to experience the glory of God in the unified Body of Christ as we all abide in Him.
We also welcome special guest Aaron Williams and the Worship Initiative Band all the way from Dallas, Texas. They will be leading us in some extended times of worship as well.
Tickets are on sale at an early-bird rate of $69. Don’t tell anyone I told you this, but you can also get an additional $10 off by using the promo code ABIDESAVE10. Bring your family and friends and come cherish some precious time with our great God. Get your tickets today.
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me” (John 15:4).
So excited to see you there!
