Since 1999 the fabulous Susan Willard and I have had the privilege of serving on the FamilyLife Weekend to Remember marriage getaway speaker team. Over the years we have spoken at dozens of these powerful events in cities all over the country.
We love the fact that we get to do this ministry because we get to do it together. I am always thankful that Susan is such a wise and winsome communicator. You should see some of the encouraging comments that she receives each time she speaks!
Of course we also love the fact that these conferences provide a getaway for us, too. We love to travel and have truly had some weekends to remember. This past weekend was definitely one of those.
We spoke at the Napa conference over Valentine’s Day. How about that for a getaway? We enjoyed some great meals and the stunning scenery, but once again the most memorable part of the weekend was the way the Lord powerfully moved in the lives of so many who attended.
We have been on the team long enough to know that it is not about us. In fact, one of the things that we like best about the FamilyLife model is that it isn’t focused on the speakers at all. Sure, we help guide the process and tell some personal stories along the way, but because marriage is so important to the heart of God, He shows up and does the real work.
The following are just a few of the comments that attenders submitted this weekend at the conclusion of our time together in Napa.
“This weekend has been amazingly powerful. Our marriage has struggled for over a decade and I feel such a sense of relief and peace. I feel this weekend is the new beginning for me, my husband, and our family. Thank you!”
“We could not have gotten to the place of reconnection and recommitment without this weekend. I really feel like it has put our marriage back on track. We laughed, we cried, we prayed, and we reconnected and recommitted!”
“Actually thought of cancelling because I thought our marriage was too far gone to save. Left the weekend feeling hopeful and looking forward to working with my husband to build a strong relationship using the tools you’ve given us.”
“My marriage was going down a bad, destructive path and now the Lord has broken our hearts of stone and healing and oneness is being restored. Thank you doesn’t seem enough.”
“We recommitted our lives to Christ and for the first time prayed together for our marriage. My husband said to me “This has been the best Valentine’s weekend we have ever spent together.” What a great investment! Thank you.”
It was a great weekend and it is such a blast to be a part of the FamilyLife team.
Chris Willard 