Pastor Jason shared a few reflections from his sabbatical in last Sunday's worship service. Below is a recap...
The word “sabbatical” comes from a Hebrew word which means to “cease” or “rest.” It's an extended period of time for physical rest, spiritual renewal, and overall refreshment. I'm happy to report that I experienced all of the above during my sabbatical this summer!
Before sabbatical I felt fatigued. An extended break from the pressures of everyday ministry was healing for my mind, body, and soul. The opportunity to get more rest and exercise was incredibly beneficial. I return feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Sabbatical was also life-giving for us as a family. It was a joy to travel and spend so much time together. Don't get me wrong... we discovered early on that you don't cease to be a sinner just because you're on sabbatical. Spending lots of time together makes getting on each other's nerves inevitable! But those were occasions for us to lean into the gospel and grow in Christ-likeness. A family highlight was our "Sabbatical Feast" that we enjoyed together to close out sabbatical. We feasted, shared our favorite memories, and gave thanks to God for his goodness. We made many memories together this summer that will not be forgotten.
A personal highlight was my prayer retreat that allowed me to get away for a few days to experience God's presence through Scripture reading, prayer, solitude, and study. God met me during this time. I took time to reflect on the past seven years of ministry, to grow in self-awareness, to seek vision for the future, and to discern what changes I need to make by God's grace in order to grow as a disciple of Jesus, husband, father, pastor, and leader.
I can't express how grateful we are as a family for the gift of sabbatical this summer. I want to thank all of the City Church leaders who stepped up in various ways to compensate for my absence. I want to especially thank Wayne Pansa and Margie Comanda for carrying a heavier load so that I could disengage from ministry for a season. I'm confident that my sabbatical will bear fruit for me, my family, and our congregation for years to come. Thank you for your prayers!
Pastor Jason