Renewal
As I write this message, I’m basking in the peace of Lake Junaluska, North Carolina. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains between Asheville and the Tennessee border, the mission of Lake Junaluska is to “be a place of Christian hospitality where lives are transformed through the renewal of soul, mind, and body.” For more than 110 years, folks have gathered at this location in faithful worship, prayer, and spiritual formation.
Whether I’m talking a walk around the lake, marveling at the rose garden, or sitting in thoughtful reflection as the tender mountain breeze sends refreshment, I find renewal in this special place.
A Living Sacrifice
In Romans, Paul urges us to be a living sacrifice, humbling ourselves in service and obedience to our Savior.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1-2)
When I observe God’s creation in this beautiful and peaceful mountain spot, I’m humbled that He has gifted us with our home, Earth. I feel close to Him and I experience the call to serve Him.
Lessons from Paul in Romans 12
We have received the gift of grace from our Father and our response should be humility in service to Him.
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. (Romans 12:3)
God gives all of us unique and different gifts to use in service to Him. And He expects us to respond to His call to serve.
We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:6-8)
We all fit into those categories of giving and serving, don’t we? Where are your strengths? Where do you most enjoy serving? Does a place of renewal help you prepare for service?
Love in Action
By using the gifts God has given us in His service, we are demonstrating our love to God and others. Love isn’t just a feeling. Love is an action verb. Paul shares how to put love into action.
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. (Romans 12:10)
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. (Romans 12:12)
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. (Romans 12:16)
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18)
Lake Junaluska is a beautiful location for peace and renewal, but I must return to my “real” world. But God goes with me on that journey, too, guiding me in service to Him with the gifts He has given.
God is with you, too. When you seek renewal through Him, He will gift you with peace and equip you for His service.
Katherine, we all need a place like Lake Junaluska where we can go to be refreshed around God’s creation and His people. Mine happens to be a place called Jumonville. I’ve been going for fifty-five years.
Fifty-five years! Then I know Jumonville must be an awesome place. I need to look it up! Thank you for sharing, Ben. I hope you are planning another trip to your place of renewal.
Well said Ms. Katherine. We need that renewal and refilling. It happens when we find that quiet place and listen for God. He comes to us and fills us with His peace and love. I pray you leave there, filled to overflowing sweet friend.
Thank you, J.D. I’ve been renewed twice within a week, both involved being at a lake (two different ones) with those I cherish. Thank you for your encouragement, my friend and wishing you joy, sunshine, and rain (as needed) on the Cross-Dubya. Blessings!
Renewal, peace, and equipped for service–what great promises! Thank you, Katherine.
Thank you, Diana. Happy Summer!
Karen and I are blessed to live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We recently drove up “the hill” to Lake Junaluska and were blown away by the beauty and peacefulness there. Time out for refreshing the soul and mind is as important as physical fitness. Thank you for reminding us!
I’m so happy you’ve been there, Craig. Lake Junaluska is such a lovely and peaceful spot. Since you’re not too far, I hope you can enjoy the gift of Lake Junaluska often. Sending good wishes to you and Karen.
We all need the type of renewal you write about. It strengthens us, regenerates is, and reminds us why we’re here.
Your description of this peaceful place is lovely.
I expect you find your renewal at the beach, Candyce, but if you ever have the opportunity to go to Lake Junaluska, I know you will enjoy it. Wishing you joy and blessings.
The lake you describe sounds heavenly. When we pause long enough to truly contemplate the beauty and wonder of God’s character, we become more humble and willing to serve. I think that’s how a time of spiritual renewal helps us love others better. Thanks, Katherine!
I expect there are lovely settings of tranquility near most of us and I hope we all can find those places of renewal. Sometimes it may be in a quiet spot within our home, just where we can have quiet time with our Lord. I agree with you–spiritual renewal helps us love others better. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Annie. Blessings!
It looks lovely. I’m so glad you have the opportunity and made the time happen for “renewal.” Love the pattern Jesus gave of taking time alone with the Father. It’s a good reminder to me in this season too.
I need that reminder, too, Sylvia. I tend to stay so busy that my quiet time with God and renewal with Him suffers. Wishing you peace, mercy, and grace, my friend.
Kenn’s parents attended retreats there years ago. I remember that they loved it! Glad you were able to enjoy your time there too!
Thank you, LuAnn. Lake Junaluska is beautiful–a wonderful spot for renewal. Peace and blessings!