Today, we spent some time reflecting on the mighty deeds that God has done over the past few days. One introvert confessed that she was reluctant to come to a gathering of women she didn’t know. However, the environment established through prayer and intentional conversations allowed her to make new friends and leave refreshed. Many stories were shared of how the "Taste of Home" gifts demonstrated God’s lavish love for the women. Surprising blessings reminded them that the Lord is attentive to their everyday needs and quiet delights. One woman shared that a few weeks ago, tears flowed as she used the last packet of brown gravy mix for her family... and she was so grateful that there were several packets in her gift bag! Another woman expressed her joy when, although she hadn’t asked for chocolate, she received her absolute favorite, Trader Joe’s Coffee Buzz.

We also heard about how the women were encouraged and re-energized. At our first session of the retreat, the women were asked to rate their level of depletion on a scale from zero to ten. Several women arrived in the two to three range, nearly empty with little left to give. Today, as they were reflecting, they shared that they were replenished and had renewed energy to continue serving. Several women shared that they felt so loved and seen during the retreat. They spend much of their time setting aside their own needs to serve others, and were blessed and humbled to be served and loved on by the volunteers. The retreat has been God’s special gift to each global woman. It is our prayer that each woman leaves knowing that God sees them in their struggles and is working through their tough situations.

Ultimately, it was time for goodbyes. WhatsApp contacts were exchanged, accountability partners formed, future gatherings planned, and many hugs shared. The women received rest, laughed together, and experienced a distraction-free environment where they could worship, share their struggles, and be reminded of God’s faithfulness and abundant love.