Highlights of elders retreat part 2 - the torn box.

It was a dramatic moment. We were away praying for the church and how we lead it. Suddenly Andrew, in uncharacteristic fashion took the cardboard box containing the pens, notepads and general paraphernalia we were using and asked us each to rip a corner down. Gradually, the neat box was destroyed and the colourful contents exposed. Andrew then asked Nigel to throw the torn box and its contents into the air! Result - mess. Mess and release of the box' contents. It was a powerful image of what we wanted the Holy Spirit to do amongst us - not to be contained and neat, but to be free, messy, dangerous and to release people into all He has for them. God is not be to be boxed in. It may not look neat and tidy to us, but He must have His way. Scary...