Bruny Alone

I think it was Dietrich Bonhoeffer who said something to the effect of 'Let him who cannot be alone beware of community and him who cannot be in community beware of being alone'. I'm definitely in the first group. I love being with people and solitude is for the birds! All that being said, I have just returned form another trip to Bruny Island. I have been there many times, but this time I went alone. I stayed for two days at Rudie's place. Bruny begins to take on more and more significance for me. It has been the place of various retreats for me - with the Mnistry team, with the eldership and with my pastor's retreat group. This time it was a retreat for just me - although my purpose was to spend some time with the Lord. I have done this several times now, and although I find it hard, each time seems to get a little easier.

I went this time with quite a sense of expectation. Years ago I mixed for a while with some guys from a Catholic renewal community. They would always commence a season of prayer by asking the question, 'What is the grace that I seek?' In other words, during this time of prayer, what is it that I am seeking from the Lord. Everyhting He gives is by grace. It was easy for me to answer. The grace that I seek is to hear the voice of God speaking directly and clearly to me. It doesn't sound much at first, but it can blow you way if you think about it.

I came home knowing that God had indeed spoken to me. There was direction for my ministry and my relationship with Him. There was reassurance about His love for me and my value in His eyes. It was a good time.

Will I go again. Yes, and soon. I think ...


I only took two pictures this time, so I thought I may as well show you both of them!