We were booked in for a week at Nicholaston House, we
were so disappointed when we heard that Adrian & Bridget Plass, taking the theme ‘Catch the wave,’ was
unable to come. We could have cancelled, but Nicholaston is a very special
place, and we were confident God would still meet with us in his own way. In
the heart of the Gower peninsular, described as one of Britain’s best kept
secrets, this very special place is a secret which needs to be shared.
Overlooking the wide sweep of Oxwich Bay, its headlands
curving around the quiet waters of the bay, picture for me the sense of peace
and security I always experience when I come here. The old house, once a hotel,
has become a haven of healing and hope for many. ‘In this house you will find
peace,’ are the prophetic words written large in the porch, and I have always
found them true.
Claimed by faith by workers with the Swansea City
Mission, and trusting the God of abundance, it has been turned from a run-down
hotel to a house of beauty and excellence. Each time I visit there is some
further outreach, from the extensive conservatory, to the craft room and
self-catering flats, the quiet garden and bird-watching facilities among others,
and now the Celtic chapel, so conducive to prayer and worship.
No wonder almost all of us who had booked decided to go.
After all, God is not dependant on special speakers to meet with us, though he
so often delights to use them. Young and old, we gathered. I was grateful I was
not the only one glad of some gentler walks along the Pennard cliffs, or over
Worms Head, but others were game to walk up the Bryn to the highest point on
the Gower and make the challenging clamber down from the house to the bay. We
began and ended each day with devotions led by staff members when God was
speaking into our lives, and he was also using times when we prayed or just
gelled with one another.
I think I felt like you surfers must feel sometimes when
you quietly tread water. Though some of us had come out of turbulent waters and
had great challenges ahead, I too am quietly waiting, watching and trusting I
will be ready to ride the next wave that undoubtedly will arise.
Adrian’s challenge was to have been, ‘Catch the wave – Do
we dare?’ Well – do I? Do
you?
