I have been incredibly blessed by the encouraging words people have offered me as I begin this sabbatical journey. Many pastors and other leaders have expressed how happy they are that I am taking this time. One question I’ve been asked frequently in recent months has been, “What are you going to be working on?” I do know pastors who have used sabbaticals to write a book or conduct research. My answer has been a simple, “Not working.”
For me, not working is going to be hard. I have been neglectful of my physical and spiritual health. I have failed to establish healthy boundaries of regular time off and have neglected time with family and time with God more than I care to admit. I love what I do, but I have developed unhealthy patterns that are not sustainable. So, it is time to hit the reset button on life and ministry. I will be spending time with family, friends, and Jesus. I will be meeting with a Spiritual Director and my counselor. I will go to my doctor, resume moving my body on a daily basis, and seek to establish healthier patterns of sleep. But my biggest need, and the most challenging task, will simply be not working.
So, please pray for me during this time of sabbatical. Pray that God may use it in whatever ways it may be most helpful to Him and His kingdom’s work. Pray that I may experience greater health in every aspect of my life so that when I return to work in the new year, I can be a healthier and more effective leader. Thank you for your loving support. And, consider how God may be calling you to embrace your own journey to greater physical, spiritual, and emotional health.
