Dear Grace family,
On April 3rd, I begin a three-month sabbatical to focus on manuscript preparation for publishing, spiritual refreshment, and professional development. I will return to regular pastoral duties on July 5th. I leave you in good and loving hands.
This will be the longest time that I have gone without preaching in 24 years (I may need counseling for withdrawal symptoms). I do plan to attend here three weekends - the first will be Good Friday and Easter.
The point of the sabbatical is not to isolate me from you. We don't need a break from each other relationally - we are family. Connecting with me would be welcomed. Just think of it this way - you would be safe to have lunch with me and not worry about having to give a living picture.
You will be missed. I will not cease to uphold you before the Father's throne of grace, as I hope you will for me. Here is my desire and prayer for you while I am away:
Your delight in God’s word. Prepare for corporate worship, biblical exposition, and small group with great anticipation. Your delight in God’s self-disclosure will lead you to a flourishing satisfaction in Him.
Value the function of discipleship. At Grace there are many who are faithful followers and can walk with you in a Godward direction. Cherish that. Purpose to be a part of it. It is what Jesus taught us.
Champion the unity of the church. The church of Jesus Christ is united as Christ prayed in John 17. Fostering relationships anchored in the gospel is the mortar that keeps the building blocks together.
Live out the reality that we are all in ministry. Part of following Jesus is helping others follow Him. Move outward with your faith as you have been equipped.
May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
[Romans 15:5-7, 13]
Rich
Copyright © 2022 Grace Bible Church, All rights reserved.