We primarily use our newsletter to let those praying for us and supporting us know what and how this ministry is doing. The following is the featured story form our may edition. We hope you enjoy it and sign up for our newsletter too!
At the beginning of April, an email was sent out offering Elijah’s Tree’s services. Shortly after there were two responses. One has been a pastor for over 25 years and had never been on a retreat. He told me that he was talking with others about a retreat the day before, and then our email showed up in his inbox. A small sign I guess. The dates he needed were only two weeks away, so we worked hard and fast to find out what best suited him. He told me the way he liked to relax was watching old John Wayne movies. However, when I offered them he told me he was in a place where he just needed to get away and be with Jesus. We found a Bed and Breakfast called the Fig Preserve in Tarpley, TX. It had a separate cabin where he could have privacy, but also home cooked meals. This was close to public land with walking and hiking trails. After the retreat he contacted us through email to say thanks and tell us it was exactly what he needed. The owners of the Fig Preserve said he left a token gift to say thanks as well. It’s great to hear what God is doing through Elijah’s Tree.
The other retreat was for a couple whom were looking forward to, and coming up on retirement rather quickly. In pre-retreat discussions we found out they prefer a beach setting. We were able to secure a beach house in Magnolia Beach, TX. called The Castaway Cottage. This was less than a five minute drive to a sandy beach that overlooked beautiful Matagorda Bay. They had limited dates, so it was a concern if they would be able to get the full benefit of the retreat. My lesson learned? Never underestimate what God can and will do when His people draw near to Him. I’m going to complete our featured story by sharing a short thank you note they left for us with their names intentionally left out for confidentiality:
“Dear Kelly and Elijah’s Tree Ministry,
We are so blessed to have spent these few hours in retreat, and as a result, renewed! We experienced the Holy Spirit at work in us, our bodies, spirits, and minds. We have turned over to God, our fears, doubts, worries, and burdens. We learned we are ready for whatever is next!
Thank You! With Love & Joy”
We hope you enjoyed this section from our last newsletter. If you are not signed up for our newsletter, click here! Also, please remember that we are here to help those in ministry who are facing stress and burnout. If you know of someone who could use a retreat, please contact us. Thanks for reading and as always – To GOD be the glory!