As the year draws to a close, the YEF Headquarters takes a moment to reflect on the recent Christmas retreat held in December 2024. This retreat was not just an occasion for celebration, but a time of spiritual growth and reflection for all those involved. It was a chance for participants to go deeply into the true meaning of Christmas, beyond the festivities, the decorations, and the gifts. They gathered to learn about the coming of Christ and the gift of salvation He brings to each of us.
This year’s retreat was had a sense of grace that was present in every aspect of the experience. From the Bible studies and sermons to the fellowship and casual moments shared over meals, the retreat became a sacred space for participants to seek a closer relationship with Christ. YEF’s hope for all attendees, students and staff alike, is that they continue to grow in their understanding of Christ’s love and deepen their personal relationship with Him, seeking His guidance for their lives.
Many students shared moving reflections, expressing how the retreat challenged and inspired them in ways they had not expected. One participant shared their thoughts on the immeasurable love of God, saying,
“God’s love for us is beyond our human understanding, and it’s something we can only experience through Him. Nobody, person, or thing in this world can give us this true love. Every time I look at the life of Jesus, it helps me to understand His love for us more deeply. Jesus died for the sinners, the bad people, the ones who cursed and rejected Him. He came to save each of us, even though we didn’t deserve it. And that’s what true love is. God cares for us all, and we should have this joy and peace every day because we have been saved.”
Another reflection spoke to the deeper spiritual insights gained during the retreat.
“I felt that the retreat was very graceful and driven by the Holy Spirit. I felt Him during the Bible studies and sermons, fellowship, lunch and dinner. The atmosphere was filled with His grace and mercy. One thing that stood out to me was the Bible study where one of the pastors said we shouldn’t have a surface-level understanding of God. We shouldn’t tailor God into what we think He could do for us. Instead, we should surrender to His will. This really moved me because I tend to tailor God into my own needs, not realizing that God has something better for me.”
A student beautifully summarized their experience, saying,
“The main point was understanding Christmas not only as a time of joy because of His birth but also because of His life and death. From the beginning, He was placed in a lowly position and endured suffering to show His love and save us. The cross is love, and the resurrection is life. It reminded me that Christ’s will and purpose are better than our own. It made me reflect on how I can treat others better, especially those in lower social situations, and how I can be more Christ-like in my everyday life.”
The retreat also offered a chance to reflect on the paradox of Christmas: how the Messiah came in humility, contrary to the expectations of many.
As YEF reflects on this retreat, there is an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the deep spiritual growth witnessed among attendees. The hope is that these reflections will continue to shape their lives as they move into the new year. The retreat was not only a time of spiritual renewal but also a reminder of God’s incredible love and the eternal life offered through Jesus Christ.
YEF continues to pray for all who attended the retreat, that they may continue to grow in their faith and relationship with Christ. May this retreat serve as a source for ongoing spiritual reflection, and may all who participated carry with them the joy, peace, and love of Christ into the days ahead.
