Why Do You Do A DNow?

More often than not, when we’re asked, “why do you have a D-Now or Retreat?” we answer with, “Well, we do one every year.” This may be sufficient in the moment, but let me encourage you to dig deeper.

Digging deeper may cause you to utilize some extra brainpower, but when you’re planning this year’s retreat, what you uncover may be invaluable.

Ask yourself these questions to determine the real reason you do a DNow each year:

• Where is my group this year compared to last year? (Spiritually, numerically, etc.)
• What dramatic changes have occurred (death, divorce, major exits, etc.) over the past year that have impacted my group?
• What Bible narratives or Scriptures come to mind when you think over the past year? What kind of journey has your group been on?
• What events in culture have altered the way your group behaves (trends, music, war, etc.)?
• What have you had trouble with over the past year? (Kids not understanding the Word, lack of obedience to the Word, disunity, cliques, lack of attendance, etc.)

Maybe these questions help you answer the “why” of doing an event where you and your group can spend a focused time over the course of a couple of days. These answers should help you decide not only why you’re having the retreat, but what you should desire to come out of it.

So, the next time someone asks you why you do something, just say, “We do it every year, and do you have 15 minutes to tell you why this year is going to be the best?”

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Paul Turner has been working with teenagers for over 20 years. Paul is a speaker, author, and youth ministry trainer. Check out Paul on his website, www.thediscipleproject.net.