God knows all of our needs, and often puts into motion plans to care for us before we are even aware of the need. He provides in ways that are unexpected—and in our eyes unplanned. But He knows His plans for us. For many of our retreat attendees, this reality becomes even more clear as they are loved and cared for by our volunteers. And often, also by other attendees. Sandlin is a good example of how God plans for our needs and prepares the way for us. In 2015, she attended a Thrive retreat while dealing with hard circumstances and a death in her family.

After debating, she decided to attend regardless, and at the retreat the Lord met her through the community she developed in her small group. The women prayed and encouraged her.

Fast forward to this summer. Sandlin wasn’t planning on attending this Thrive retreat in Prague until a coworker asked if she was going. She said no; saw the disappointment in her colleague’s eyes, and changed her mind so that her friend wouldn’t have to travel alone. And then a few days before this retreat, her little granddaughter suffered a life-threatening injury far away in the US, and again Sandlin found herself wondering if she should come to the retreat. But she knew how God had met her at that first time, and she came hoping for the same type of community and prayer support. And immediately she found support with specific prayer from her volunteer greeters as she shared her circumstances.

Sandlin shared with us that she wants to relive the small group experience she had in 2015, and she hasn’t been disappointed. She is finding encouragement through her small group, and through the holistic offering of self-care opportunities. Today she scheduled a time of prayer, relaxed in a pedicure, and received a beautiful new haircut! Sandlin is looking forward to another day of care tomorrow, from the morning teaching and worship, small group time for sharing and prayer, and a relaxing afternoon of self-care and quiet time!