Retreating

The house was across from a Christian retreat center (castle!)

In December, we took 3 days to get away from Vienna on a spiritual retreat. WorldVenture allows us to do this once a year, and we are so thankful. They know how stretching and challenging ministry overseas can be and how valuable it is to get away. I know for me especially, it can be really hard for me to relax at home. There are always tasks to be done and distractions to pull me away and keep me busy. So being out of the house in a place where I don't have to worry about cleaning, cooking or my to do list is so valuable.


We were blessed to be invited by some friends-of-friends to stay at their house 2 hours outside of Vienna in the mountains. We had never met before, but they welcomed us with open arms. Not only that, but they understood our reasons for getting away and gave us the space we needed. Each day, we spent time reading our bibles; memorizing scripture in German; praying over specific aspects of our life, ministry and friends/family; having independent reading time; and together reading the book Radical by David Platt. The book led to some great discussions. We also got out for a hike each day, and we did our best to avoid technology, except the occasional email on our phones.

View of the lake from one of our hikes

Being in the stillness of the mountains and having a simple agenda was so refreshing for the both of us. It helped us to connect with God and each other in a way that we really needed, and we returned home refreshed. To be honest, it was really difficult to get away during such a busy season of life and during the holiday season...but I think it's during those times that we need these things the most! We were so thankful for our retreat and hope to repeat this in the years to come.