workers' retreat 2007

One of the most enduring love stories of all time is the tale of Shah Jahan and his love, Mumtaz Mahal. It was said that Shah Jahan was so brokenhearted by her death that he not only commanded the royal court to mourn for two years, he also immortalized his love for Mumtaz by embarking on one of the greatest feats of construction ever known to man. Shah Jahan ordered the construction of the Taj Mahal - a temple that would serve as Mumtaz’ tomb.

According to some legends, however, as the construction of the tomb was under way, the Shah’s focus changed. He became so obsessed with finishing the Taj Mahal that, while he no longer felt depressed nor lonely, he also forgot his beloved Mumtaz. The object of his passion was no longer his departed wife. She was no longer his one true love. The Taj Mahal consumed Shah Jahan completely.

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The danger of losing our True Love is something that all of us, as servants of the Lord, have to guard against. In the busyness of day-to-day living, it is so easy to lose our focus.. to forget the Reason why we do the work we do. Just like the Shah in the story, we may all start our service with the best of intentions.. our hearts burning with love for God. But if we are not careful, our heart might soon desire something else - friends, fellowship and yes, even community activities and services.

Exodus 20:9-10 says, “Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God.” And in last Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus tells Martha, “...you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42) We make time for doing the Lord’s work and being active in His service. But more importantly, we should set aside time to just sit by His feet to listen and to enjoy His presence. For God places the utmost importance to our spending time with Him.

It is for this reason that every year, the Rivers of Living Water Catholic Community holds a special retreat for all its ministry workers. This year, the Workers’ Retreat will be held on Saturday, 28 July 2007 at the RFM Auditorium. This annual event gives all those in ministry a chance to just be still. To cease from ministry work, even for just a day. To be ministered to by the Lord and His Word. The Workers’ Retreat is a “Sabbath” of sorts - a time for resting in God’s presence. And a time to remember Him - our One True Love and our Heart’s Desire.

We pray for all those who are in ministry service.. that they may continue to draw strength from God. That they may be refreshed and renewed.. ready to work for the Lord with enthusiasm and with cheerful hearts. And most importantly, we pray that their hearts and minds continue to be set on Him - the source of all blessings and the Reason for their service.

God bless, brothers and sisters!