I had the privilege of being the spiritual director of the latest Walk to Emmaus at Garden City and once again, God outdid Himself (as if that's possible). Four men from the Leoti area participated (all from different churches) and were blessed beyond measure. You'll have to ask them ( Kevin Larson, Chris Antonelli, Matt Ramsey, and Bill Gerstberger) about their experiences.
Emmaus is a 72 hour spiritual formation weekend that helps people come to an understanding of God's love for them through times of various talks, worship services, times of reflection, and food, fun, and fellowship. I've been blessed to observe God's working in the lives of those who participate during the weekend, as well as the weeks, months, and years that follow. Of course, Emmaus is just a tool used by God to bring people closer to him and to each other. It is not some magical weekend experience that will automatically solve all the struggles of life. I've seen the mistake of that misunderstanding. However, it DOES point to the ONE who will never leave nor forsake.
I've taken part in many opportunities for spiritual renewal and growth over the years and Emmaus is just another one of those means that God uses to extend his grace to us. It's not the only one, but it is one that is powerful and highly effective. Others are Lay Witness Missions, Disciple Bible Study, Trinity Studies, small group ministries, Stephen Ministries, prayer retreats, and on and on. Whatever brings people to Jesus is "just" alright with me.
But for this moment, the Walk to Emmaus touched the lives of many men who experienced the fact that God loves them and there's nothing they can do about it. And now, the women who are going this weekend are about to experience that for themselves. Praise God!
4 comments:
I love to watch the eyes of the emmaus group after a walk. what a fire inside. I love to hear the stories and feel the love of God so close to the hearts of those who get to experience it. Many blessings to the ones who TAKE THE PLUNGE!! Congratulations on an awesome weekend.teresa
What is Emmaus? Let me give you my opinion. It is an unbelivable closeness to God. You will rarely get the chance to have an experience like this. It is humbling to witness God's love, forgiveness, and his grace. It fills your mind, body, and soul with the Holy Spirit and it fills your heart with a burning fire to not only receive God's love but to go out and spread his love to others. This is only the beginning of what Emmaus is about. It would behoove you to attend to find out the rest. But as I already stated, this is just my opinion. Congrats PR on another great Walk!!!
Kevin
wow is all i can say about this experinse. kevin hit it right on.
and it would behoove everyone to attend. God bless everyone chris
An epiphany is awaiting those who feel the behooval of attending Emmaus!
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