When was the last time you took a vacation? I'm not talking about a day off or a quick trip to the in-laws. I'm talking about rest and relaxation. Getting away with your family. Leaving the cares of your church behind and recharging your batteries. When was the last time you got some rest? That's my family. On a lake. ON VACATION. Life is good. This week, Jeff and I are officially BOTH on vacation. Yes, I preached this morning and will preach again next week, but I'm not letting that fact stop me from savoring each and every second of this week that me and my family are spending on the lake. It's going to be glorious. It's going to be memorable. Most of all, it's going to be full of rest.
Last week I saw a comment on Dave Jacob's small-church Facebook group that broke my heart. There was a pastor who made the comment that he hadn't missed a Sunday of church in something like 8 years. WHAT?! This summer, I have missed two Sunday for no other reason that to take a break! Jeff is currently on vacation and will miss two Sundays in a row. And I say all of this without the slightest tinge of guilt or regret. Why? Because pastors need to get some rest! I know what you're thinking. "It's easier for you and Jeff because there's two of you at the church!" That's true, it is easier. But it is simply not true that it's impossible for solo pastors to take a break and get some rest. Have an elder or deacon preach. Ask another church in town to loan you a pastor. Jeff and I recently talked to a group of church planters and I overheard a conversation between two of them. The jist of it was that there was a worship pastor from one church who was looking for preaching opportunities at other churches. Not to candidate, but simply to get a chance to hone his craft! There are churches around you with young pastors just itching for the chance to preach. Give them that chance while you get the heck out of dodge! Pastor, we love you. Please, take a vacation. |
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