Outdoor Experiment Fuels Robust Appetite for God

Two friends' vision, intention, and means lead to a meaningful retreat and fellowship.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two Christian men, Mike and Matt, organized a retreat for a small group of fellow believers focused on solitude, silence, and fellowship. After a period of quiet reflection, the group gathered around a campfire where Matt had prepared a delicious meal of fresh, sizzling steaks. The combination of spiritual purpose, intentional collaboration, and practical execution resulted in an impactful experience that nourished the group's hunger to grow closer to Christ.

Why it matters

In a world filled with distractions, the story highlights the importance of intentionally creating space for solitude, silence, and communal spiritual growth. The retreat exemplifies how a shared vision, thoughtful planning, and simple pleasures can cultivate a "robust appetite for God" among believers seeking to deepen their faith and relationship with Christ.

The details

Mike and Matt, described as "Jesus-follower visionaries," collaborated on organizing the outdoor retreat. After a period of silent reflection, the group gathered around a campfire where Matt had prepared a feast of fresh, sizzling steaks. This practical, well-executed element complemented the spiritual purpose and intentional planning that went into the retreat.

  • The pre-designated couple hours of silence and solitude drew to a close.
  • The small gathering of men met again at the campfire.

The players

Mike

One of the two Christian men who organized the outdoor retreat, marked by his love for the Lord and the wellbeing of fellow believers.

Matt

The other organizer of the outdoor retreat, who collaborated with Mike and prepared the delicious meal of fresh, sizzling steaks for the group.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“There was a time, not so very long ago, when solitude and silence were available to people by the normal conditions of everyday life. Not any longer! In our day, we have to choose solitude and silence and plan our lives accordingly. It can be done, of course, especially as we catch a vision of their liberating qualities.”

— Richard Foster (The Making of an Ordinary Saint)

“Those who hunger and thirst ... will be filled.”

— Jesus (Matthew 5:6)

The takeaway

This story highlights the power of intentional spiritual retreats that combine solitude, fellowship, and simple pleasures. By creating space for believers to nurture their hunger for God, events like this can help deepen faith, strengthen community, and inspire others to pursue a more robust appetite for the divine.