TAKING A SABBATICAL

 

     You have read that correctly. I am taking a sabbatical. If you know me well, you know that is not my true personality. I admit it. I don't know when to stop sometimes. Some people call me "The Energizer Bunny." I even had a Chiropractor say to me "Well, the grass certainly doesn't grow under your feet!" I have worked 3 jobs. I have worked seven days a week and I have been doing children's ministry for over 40 years. I have always given 100% in everything I do. Not only in church but also at every job I have ever had. My parents taught me how to have an amazing work ethic. However, I have to constantly remind myself that I am 61 years old not 21! That is why I am taking something we call a sabbatical. I need a break!

     Just to let you all know, I am NOT quitting my job and I am NOT selling Grandpa Lou and his cast of characters, I am simply taking a breather. A sabbatical is when you take a leave of absence or a rest for a certain period of time. I believe every pastor should take a sabbatical. The demands of ministry are very intense, and the demands of every pastor are "through the roof." I know not every church can do this for their pastor, but I do believe it is important for that pastor. Even those of us who are not in ministry, it is important that we go on vacations and take time for ourselves. 

     I have not done any kind of ministry in over a month. I am taking this time to pray, make plans for what I want to do next and also visit several churches in my area. I have plans of possibly going into libraries to do programs and also writing a book called "Building a ministry from the ground up." Even if the book takes me 5 years to write I will take my time to make it happen. To be honest, I am enjoying the rest, but I will admit I do miss doing Grandpa Lou and Shelton the Shark. I have been making improvements on certain puppet characters, and I have been writing programs I want to do with kids in the future. Many times, when you do the same thing over and over without a break it can be tiresome. It is important for all of us to take time for ourselves. I have realized also that there are others in this world who have the same gifts I have. I can't do it all! But what I can do is take a break so that I can be refreshed. After that I will be energized to do what I love...but just not for right now...down the road when it's the right time.