Unconditional Love

I've hit on this before, but I wanted to talk about it again. It's so easy as Pastors to get caught in a trap. We spend so much time loving people unconditionally that when it comes time for people to love us unconditionally, and they don't, it can cut us to the core.

Today I talked with a friend who had been cut to the core, and honestly, I would agree he deserved an apology. But far too often, that apology never comes and we end up hurt, disappointed, and begrudged. This is when it's time to take a step back and learn from the expert...JESUS. He was, by far, the one who deserved an apology for being treated wrongly. And yet we read about his forgiveness toward and acceptance of those who had hurt him so deeply.

Unconditional love is never easy, but it is necessary. Remember when humans let you down, Jesus is still there loving you no matter what has happened....

Sabbatical

Patrick and I recently completed a three week sabbatical. Honestly, for me, it wasn't quite long enough, but I am renewed and God has given me a fresh perspective. This was a scary decision on so many different levels, but now that it is over, I would definitely recommend a sabbatical to any pastor. Not sure how often one should be taken, but 9 years into the ministry was probably too long without a break. :)

One very important detail is the differentiation between vacation and sabbatical. For me, I made it simple, vacation is about me and my family. Sabbatical is about me and God. Two totally different focuses! I would recommend not trying to combine them!!

Would love to hear from others who have taken sabbaticals...