Top o’ the Mornin’ to Ya!
TLDR: My experience scouting a remote retreat location in Voyagers National Park, revealing how intentional disconnection from daily striving can restore our focus on what truly matters – our relationship with God, family, and authentic community.
Yesterday I spent an incredible day with my wife exploring a potential retreat site deep in Voyagers National Park. We took a 16-mile boat ride out to a remote hotel and villa complex near Kettle Falls – completely disconnected from the usual noise and demands of daily life. The facility sits right on the water with a quirky tilted-floor bar, a level platform for the pool table, and boat portage service around the dam between Rainy Lake and Namakan.
The boat ride reminded me of my old days guiding in the Boundary Waters – that feeling of truly getting away and unplugging from everything. We spent the day visiting with other travelers, exploring the facilities, and just being present in that beautiful, remote setting. It wasn’t just a location scouting trip; it became a mini-retreat experience itself.
As successful Christian men, we get so caught up in our daily striving – building businesses, leading families, managing responsibilities – that we forget the critical importance of stepping back and being still. We need sacred spaces and intentional times where we can disconnect from the noise and reconnect with what truly matters.
The most successful men often struggle with a paradox: the very drive that creates their success can also distance them from the stillness where God speaks clearest. Scripture reminds us to “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10), but our culture – and often our own internal programming – equates stillness with laziness or lack of ambition. In one translation “Be still” is “Stop striving”.
True Kingdom leadership requires rhythm – periods of intentional action balanced with sacred stillness. When we create space to unplug and reflect, we gain clarity on our roles as Christ followers in our families, businesses, and communities. We remember that our identity isn’t found in what we do, but in whose we are.
This retreat location represents something deeper than just a nice getaway. It’s about creating environments where Kingdom Family Leaders can gather in authentic brotherhood, away from the performance pressures of daily life, to reflect on our true calling as Christ followers.
Take a moment right now to ask yourself: “When was the last time I took quiet downtime?” Schedule a specific time this week – even if it’s just 30 minutes – to completely disconnect from work, phones, and obligations. Find a place where you can be still and reflect on your role as a Christ follower. Use this time to pray, listen, and remember that your worth isn’t tied to your productivity. Jesus stepped away so can we.
You be blessed!
Finding Stillness in a Striving World: The Power of Sacred Disconnection
