The first weekend of November I had the privilege to once again take photos at a Ruah Touch Ministry Retreat. This time, however, it was a Married Couples Retreat in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. The photo above? That was our view every day. Amazing. But not nearly as amazing as the grace of God that was wrapped around our cabin that weekend.
Ruah Touch is a ministry for women who have experienced miscarriages and/or stillbirths. This is a deep, personal, heartbreaking time in a person's life. Whether this happened two months or twenty years ago, the pain is deep and real. Men and women walk in feeling as if they are healed but wanting to become a part of the ministry so they know they need to experience the retreat. Oh the things God does!
I am not going to discuss the things that happened with the participants, that is all so personal and very confidential. That is something I want anyone reading this to understand. I am here to encourage you, if you have experienced this pain or know someone who has, to read MY side of the story and pass on the information.
Ruah Touch Ministries has given me a family. I walk in as the photographer, there to capture precious moments of the retreat. I participate in other capacities - mostly praying and just being there for the participants. A friendly smile, encouraging word, a gentle hug. Whatever God wants from me.
Then something happens.
God speaks to MY heart. He whispers to my soul. The word that is being spoken to the participants hits a chord with me. Sometimes it hurts, sometimes it is freeing. All the time it is God.
The healing that is "meant" for the participants falls upon me. The freedom that I didn't know I needed, is given. God is amazing.
The weekend goes on. The participants connect with the teaching, they grasp it, they gain understanding, they embrace true healing. Tears are shed but there is also so much joy and laughter. There truly is a "time for every season."
Is God good? No, God is GREAT.
I have walked in to both Ruah Touch retreats expecting to bless others but always, ALWAYS God has used the time to bless ME tenfold. I think, "I am not worthy, Lord." And He whispers, "My child, you are."
YOU are worthy. Worthy to be healed. To have the pieces of your heart mended by the Lord. I encourage you, if you have been broken by miscarriage or stillbirth, to pray about attending a Ruah Touch Retreat in 2012. If you can go as a couple, DO IT. Believe it or not, your husband needs healing, too. If you need to go alone, go to the women's retreat.
Take the time to be with the Lord and sister's in Christ who love you and are there to lift you up. Many of the leaders have been through miscarriages and/or stillbirths. We all have testimonies. The most important thing you need to know is: We truly, honestly care about you and your child(ren).
Take a look at their website: Ruah Touch Ministries
If you have any questions that aren't answered on the website, please email me and I'll direct you in the right direction: angelasheartwork@yahoo.com
Counting it all joy,
Angela
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