I like accomplishing things. I make lists, file emails, and count hours. I'm the quintessential, task-oriented do-er of things. It's my nature. When my 13th year at South Side came with the opportunity for a sabbatical, it felt intimidating and freeing all at once. While the benefits weren't yet completely realized, the challenge was clear. For one month...31 days...I would completely unplug from my role at the church.
Our newly drafted policy gave guardrails in three areas. I would need to include a time of rest and recreation for me and my family, participate in some sort of counseling, and engage in a learning experience. Perfect...a list! I like lists.
During my first week, I just stayed home. Alienated from email and social media, I had little to distract me. I quickly completed the first of four books that I consumed during my time away. I also spent time with my family trying to say yes to things that a normal routine never permits. I took lunch to my girls at school, enjoyed afternoon dates with my wife, and even played the never-ending card game, war, with my youngest at 7:00 a.m.
This first week also included my first counseling appointment with Living Hope Counseling Center. For some reason, the thought of professional counseling for some ranks right below going to the dentist (which I actually enjoy...clean teeth are the best!). I think that everyone can benefit from a professional counseling environment. In fact, those that pour into others (like pastors) may have more to gain by sitting on the other side of the conversation. If you're considering any kind of therapy, I would urge you to consider the Christian worldview that Living Hope offers.
By week number two, I was ready for the crown jewel of my sabbatical - my trip to Israel. I had never really felt like a trip to the Holy Land was "a must" for me. Now that I've been, however, I think everyone who follows Jesus can benefit from one of these trips. The ability to see the landscape, the location, and even some of the same structures that would have stood in Jesus' time is simply overwhelming. To stand next to the lake where Jesus fished, taught, and healed so many or to walk the streets of the Old City Jerusalem still cloaked with first-century trappings...it was truly remarkable. A collection of my favorite 100 photos with captions can be viewed here.
Upon returning to the United States, I enjoyed Easter with my family, completed my counseling sessions, and had a few days away with my wife and kids. We took in a day at the Children's Museum and a tour of the Colt's Lucas Oil Stadium. I also spent these rare Sundays off visiting several other churches. In fact, I visited a total of six churches during my month away. I'm always intrigued by how other churches are handling similar challenges we face at South Side.
Someone asked what I missed the most. Although I hadn't already considered this question, I was quick to find the answer. I missed the people. I have the chance to work alongside some remarkable friends - both volunteers and staff. This is the reason I continue to choose a life of ministry. Since the beginning of my career in the church, I've always wanted my efforts to focus on the people God has placed around me. My particular function in ministry may continue to change (as it has from worship to administration), but the core remains the same. My month away enabled me to once again crystalize this belief. So thank you to all who prayed for me during my time away. I also have a deep appreciation for our staff and volunteers who shouldered extra work during my absence. The opportunity was one that I will always remember with gratitude and thanks.
Like I mentioned before, I love lists so in honor of the bullet point, here's my sabbatical top ten list:
- God is at work throughout the world. After visiting six other Midwestern churches and a religious melting pot in Israel, I'm reminded of my and South Side's small but significant role in the Kingdom.
- I'm fortunate to work with many of my closest friends. I missed them.
- I could become a professional napper if there was such a career track.
- The espresso in Israel is no joke!
- I'm thankful for the role that Living Hope Counseling Center plays in our community.
- My small group did a fantastic job of taking care of my family while I was away. Everyone should be as fortunate to share life with a great group of friends.
- If you work in a church, Sunday mornings are entirely different than they are for everyone else. If you've never been on a church staff, you likely can't relate to what Sundays feel like for those that do.
- Twenty-three hours is a really long time to be traveling on a plane.
- Though social media addiction is real and its effects can be harmful, there is a real community of friends and family that I missed while not being online for a whole month.
- Good days are ahead for South Side. I was eager to return - striving to do my part in helping us all bring honor and glory to God.
