O By The Way

There is something to be said about periodically getting some time aside (and away) to get caught up on reading and gather new material for the ministry of preaching.  I suppose it is the same in any line of work, but I think especially so for anyone who is called on the make presentations frequently to the people of God.  And frankly, I love what I am called to when I can give from a full well of resources!

This week I have been able to spend five days with pastors I have been with off and on for  many years and mine the depths of Scriptures, share ideas and pray together over one another.  this year I have been able to bring along my wife Ruth and together we have been able to situ under the extraordinary Bible teaching of our old friend, Dale Bruner, renew acquaintances and talk together about our futures and the future of the church.

All this is done in the beautiful confines of the California Redwoods in the Santa Cruz mountains and the hospitable environment of Mt. Hermon Christian Conference Center.  My mother came here frequently  as a child and renewed  her faith and Ruth and I are staying in a room not far from the exact spot where mom ignited her faith in Christ.

This week has again reinforced my sense of what sabbath is all about.  The need for rest and renewal is fundamental to what we do as pastors.  On some occasions, I have tried to teach and preach from a dry well, and it can lead to disaster and even more.  My thanks to those in our congregation and presbytery who have made sure we get this time away.  It always pays off when any congregation offers this kind of resource to their pastor.