Good morning everyone! I pray all is well with you.
My purpose in writing this text is to inform you that I am still using vacation time as I can. I am planning on using the rest of my vacation time during weekdays. This has been a very demanding and most difficult year and I am in need of some respite. God knows the specifics. I do enjoy the blessing of sharing daily devotionals with you and appreciate your allowing me to. I also look forward to continuing them when I return. However, I have realized that the only way I can reap the maximum benefit from my time off is to come away from the routine in order to rejuvenate. I am reminded of the scripture in Mark 6:31 where Jesus instructed His disciples with this:
“Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.” NLT‬‬

Sometimes it is necessary to step away from ministry demands in order to rest. There is so much more involved in ministry than most even realize. Above the needs and demands of pastoral ministry are the special and unique demands of my family life as well as my personal well being. I believe this is why God calls us to a weekly sabbath. He instituted this, from the beginning, for our good and His glory. In Mark 2:27 Jesus said this:
“Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath.” NLT‬‬

As we "come away" and rest, we find a secret strength that empowers us to live with things in perspective. I, most certainly, want God to use the time away to refill and re-fuel my spirit. I cannot operate at peak potential if I don't rest in Him. Please take this time to join in prayer for me that God will solidify His perfect will in my life. I want nothing less. I believe He has greater things in store. I just want to be poised and ready for His direction. In Jesus name! Amen!