Can you imagine putting 65 stars together in a room?
We experienced this on the 19th of November when the CORINTH network Fellowship of Care Providers retreat was held at the JJ Nursing Association centre at Marve Beach.
The theme for this time of reflection and celebration was “Let Your Light Shine.” Shining like stars in the universe is what the Bible calls on followers of Jesus Christ to be – and we saw this over and over again in the precious people who gathered together on that day.
Each person present was actively involved in caring for people with HIV. Some of the participants were HIV positive themselves – and caring for others like them.
The day passed far too quickly in the green serenity of the resort and the cool breeze from the sea.
We broke up into small groups to share the joys of serving – and the challenges too.
What a joy to meet so many from so many different groups – all who are serving with the same focus – to see people with HIV/AIDS receive healing and restoration – and to do so in the name and love of Jesus!
A good lunch – good fellowship – and heartfelt praise combined to bring us into the afternoon time of being challenged with the main message of being a light.
Different participants came up to share words of encouragement and hope with each other.
We then enacted a moving representation of what each of the care givers is doing every day: we washed each others feet – a
s Jesus had done for his disciples.
There were many a tear as our everyday heroes served each other. And much gratitude to our Lord for being our example and allowing us to follow Him in service.
The day came to a close with sharing communion – and then we dispersed – back to our places where we are called to serve people with HIV and their families.
All left with hearts encouraged and blessed – ready to keep serving. Ready to keep shining their lights!
