Fallow Time

"...in the seventh year the land is to have a sabbath of rest..." (Leviticus 25:4)

"What do you do when you're not away on part of your sabbatical?"

I rest and recreate and renew.

That's what this week is about. Part of the aim of the renewal program is to let my mind lie fallow from the daily work of ministry and be ministered to. In these "down" times I find myself enjoying more of the Lord in prayer, more time with family, and, yes, some time for fun.

For prayer, I'm working again through John Baillie's classic "A Diary of Private Prayer" (edited by Jeff Barker). The book of John is my daily regimen of devotions. And I'm reading whatever I want. ESPN The Magazine is quality :), along with "A Short History of Christianity" by Stephen Tomkins" and "A Resilient Life" by Gordon MacDonald.

This week's fun included a round of golf with Paul Aykens (don't ask the score!) and a trip with Orange City Elementary 5th Graders to Outdoor Ed. With three in the class I figured I should do my part!

Thanks so much for all your prayers. Next week Tuesday, I head to Bahrain for one week with the Westra's and Kappinga's, including a visit with former Trinity attender and NW grad, Jamie Ongna. I'll also be preaching in the Protestant Church.