Sabbatical 2

7/29/2017

Nearly four weeks into sabbatical, I've certainly had some time to broaden my perspective a bit and visit some other churches. The most exciting church we've gone to was not the biggest. I may be biased, because it is pastored by a friend of mine from seminary, but what made it exciting was the forward motion that was felt throughout the church. There was a sense that we were all there for a purpose, not just killing time. The pastor preached a very expository sermon (verse by verse, essentially), but then at the end he connected it to all the ministries that the church was doing. And I thought to myself, no church, no matter how small or how old, should be unable to do that. We as the Church (big C) have the most incredible privilege in the world, approaching the living God in worship, by whom we have been adopted as children and sent out into the world to reconcile lost people to his kingdom. Can anyone else on earth claim that privilege? Going to church is an awesome event, in the truest sense of the word awesome that the rest of the world has largely lost any understanding of.

Lake Michigan was another opportunity for wonder and worship. Okay, so it was a lot of fun, too. Our kids got their first look at a Great Lake at Grand Haven, MI, but also at several other points. I’ll post pictures of more of the trip on Facebook a little later, but in particular, the lake was really amazing. I know it’s a tiny thing compared to the ocean, but looking out over all that water as far as the eye can see in every direction, watching the waves lap up on the shore relentlessly, and the ever-changing pattern of color and light, I was impressed with God’s artistry that he continues to express in new ways every moment. Even when no human eye is watching, he is continually expressing his glory simply because it overflows from his nature.

This week I finally got around to some recording. It’s not quite ready to share yet, and when I do, it will have little resemblance to a song recorded and produced by professionals in a studio, but it’s been satisfying to hear the thoughts in my head finally taking on a form I can share with others. Near to Me will be ready to share by next week, and I’ll post a link. I’m thankful for all the instruments we have to explore this gift of music and the artists who have led the way, and I’m thankful that God has given us in his Word the precedent to explore our faith, both highs and lows, musically.

Two more Sundays before I return to my church family at First Christian Church. My greetings and appreciation to all of them for this opportunity to explore and expand my vision for ministry.