“Build for your team a feeling of oneness, of dependence on one another and
Vince Lombardi
of strength to be derived by unity.”
The Unstoppable Power of Unity
One of the greatest parts of my writing and speaking ministry is meeting incredible women. Being part of beautiful events where women gather, coordinate, express their gifts and unite for a common goal.
Over the past few months, I have been privileged to see women bring retreat and conference topics alive by using their amazing abilities: The women of Carrollton Baptist transformed “The Hand that Gives a Rose” into a fragrant conference blooming with fresh pink, yellow, white and red roses:
The vibrant, young, collegiate women of James Madison University illuminated “The Message of 2Mirrors” into a true time of deep reflection:
The remarkable young women of JMU Intervarsity.
A mountaintop experience for me, and hopefully for them, too.
The artistic, generous women of Calvary Reformed Presbyterian Church shaped an ordinary fellowship hall into an exquisite five-star tea room, where women of all ages lifted pinky fingers, sipped tea, nibbled scones, and delved into the Word of God:
Before you know it, hearts are melted by the Word, tears begin flowing, voices begin sharing, walls start tumbling down, and a true, authentic community begins to form. I am aware that I “buzz in” and “buzz out,” seeing everyone at their best, but I always leave with a deep sense that something special has happened.
That something special is called “spiritual unity.”
Are you ready to become an unstoppable force of unity?
Since my time in Thailand, where over 21, nationalities assembled at a women’s retreat and over 30 nationalities at our outreach event, I can’t stop thinking about the indomitable, unstoppable power of unity.
This “destiny event” changed my life, and hopefully, changed their lives, too.
Let’s be honest, women (that’s you and me), can be downright difficult at times.
We compare ourselves, talk behind each other’s backs, nitpick (is that a word?), judge motives, get jealous and envious over giftings/talents/looks/possessions/children . . . shall I continue?
Indomitable means, “impossible to subdue or defeat.”
Can I hear an amen?
The past six months have convinced me that when women gather, in the power of unstoppable unity, they are impossible to subdue or defeat. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder and heart-to-heart, united women make things happen.
Paul confirms this in his letter to the Philippians, “If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care–then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand” (Philippians 2:1-4, MSG).
So, in response to Paul’s urging, the persistent nudge of the Holy Spirit, and the burden placed on my heart in Thailand, I feel compelled to “put myself aside” and “lend a helping hand” to the work of my close friends, Kim and John Quinley (www.stepaheadmed.org).
While in Thailand, I walked side-by-side, shoulder-to-shoulder, with Kim as she went about her days–full of hard work, rewarding relationships, and front-line ministry. I saw, firsthand, the difference they are making. They need our help. The women & children-at-risk that they serve in Thailand, need our support–financially, emotionally, and spiritually.
So, today, I am thrilled to announce an event, months in the planning, lovingly called, “THE GATHERING: Women Helping Women Across the World.” On July 31, 2010, at The Hilton Garden Inn (Chesapeake/Suffolk, Riverfront), women from all over Virginia, and perhaps the nation, will gather, in an indomitable spirit of unity, to raise awareness, rally financial support and recruit community action in the fight against human trafficking/sexual exploitation. I invite you to read all about this momentous event–just click the link below.
Today, I ask, “Would you pray about being a part of this movement? This opportunity to make a difference? This two-hour event that will hopefully strengthen the work ALREADY being done in Thailand. Our keynote speaker, Kimberly Quinley, Director of Women and Children at Risk for Step Ahead Thailand, will inspire and equip each of us to be proactive, globally-minded women.
I promise to keep you updated as “The Gathering” draws nearer. I assure you–you don’t want to miss it! REGISTER ONLINE TODAY (janellrardon.com)! Seating is limited. Consider hosting a beautiful table set for 8 of your closest friends, neighbors, business associates, family members, church groups, etc.
Perhaps you are unacquainted with the emerging plight of human trafficking/sexual exploitation. Prior to my journey to Bangkok and Pattaya, I certainly didn’t understand the gravity of this situation. I was completely unaware of its grip here in the States. I still want to believe it isn’t real. But, it is very, very real. When you have a few minutes, listen to this gripping report by CBNnews. I pray it leads you to register for “THE GATHERING” so we can make a difference right here in Hampton Roads.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QB-NLAzb8k]