Pastor's Conferences part II

The first day of the conference began with Divine Service, which sadly we were unable to make it in time for, and then a session. After the session was a "Happy Hour". Everyone enjoyed free drinks and time to visit and look over the booths from CPH and local mission groups while socializing. The evening ended with a banquet. It was a large overflowing buffet with ribs, chicken, fish, roasted potatoes, several pastas, vegetables, etc.

The conference also included breakfast and lunch the second day and breakfast on the third day.

When we arrived home my husband had just enough time to drop the bags inside the door before rushing back out to work for some things that he had to take care of and then tonight he served in a dear member's funeral.

All evening I couldn't shake a growing feeling of loneliness and sadness. It reminded me of how I would feel as a child when I left one of my parent's houses to go to the other's. As a child your parents are your earthly representation of Christ; so it is understandable for such brokenness to be very unnatural and hard on a child. So why did a couple day conference with a host of pastors I did not know leave me feeling that way? As I thought back over the few days I realized I kept smiling as I remembered the meals together. We all ate in the same very large conference room and every meal was all you can eat. There was so much food and so much conversation and everyone in the room mingled about talking, introducing themselves to new pastors/vicars, and laughing. And that's when it hit me...when I was eating with all of those pastors and their wives (many wives attended but I and one other were the only ones with children) I felt as if I was getting a glimpse of heaven. A room bursting with true believers in loving communion with one another and enjoying beautiful feasts. There was nothing to worry about, and everyone was so nice and helpful.

I had no idea how much meal time could mean when it's done with a whole host of believers in Christ, all together in the same room. Come Soon Lord Jesus!