Isn’t it inspiring how God can move, despite any roadblocks that try to get in His way? This past weekend, 75 students, faculty and staff gathered in the mountains for Maranatha’s annual Spiritual Life Retreat. Victory Bible Church led a powerful three-part chapel series focused on the weekend’s theme, Carpe Diem, reminding students that God’s purpose is already at work in their lives, being carried out for His glory.

Philippians 1:6 says, “...He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Our time together encouraged us to lean into God’s strength. Students were reminded that His power is made perfect in our weakness and that even when we’re afraid, we can “do it scared” and trust Him to carry us through.

Throughout the weekend, students prayed for and with each other, surrendered their worries to the Lord, and worshipped with hearts full of gratitude. Chapel sessions were filled with raised hands and joyful voices, and outside of worship, students faced challenges together. They soared down ziplines, braved a mountainside swing in teams of three, and tackled obstacle courses that tested their courage—both figuratively and literally.

As snow blanketed the retreat on Sunday morning, the beauty of God’s creation reminded us of Psalm 126: “Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with shouts of joy. Then it was said among the nations, ‘The LORD has done great things for them.’ The LORD has done great things for us; and we are filled with joy.”

What an unforgettable time of laughter, worship, and growth! ‘Til next year!