I just started my Sabbatical (about 3 hours ago). I would really appreciate prayer, so I want to share a few thoughts about it, along with some of the things that I will be working on.

I always joke with people and tell them I won't be praying for them when they're on vacation. I am blessed to be able to take the next 12 weeks off from my responsibilities at the Savior Community Church, and I plan to relax and enjoy my family. Still, it is not a vacation. While I haven't at all wanted anyone to think I was complaining about the ministries that I participate in and love, it was clear to me that I was approaching burn out and needed to stop. Therein lies a key difference. Everyone needs to take breaks and vacations, but our needs are just a bit different. We need recuperation.

So here is what you can pray for:

1. Me. I'm tired and fat. Tempted to put a smily face after that, but it's true. A few years ago I started praying that God would help me to be more productive. He answered. Now I'm praying that He remind me how to rest, and to do it with my family in a way that blesses them and me.

2. My family. We need to decompress and connect. We're looking to relax and have fun together. Please pray that God would provide us with every resource that we need in order to have a great summer.

3. My books. Yep, books with an "s". I now have two books on my mind vying for my attention. I've completed large projects quickly before, but I don't believe I can finish even one of these projects in the next 12 weeks unless I overwork--something I simply refuse to do. To be honest, I'm embarrassed to admit I might have become a bit addicted to my work. Its hard for me to put down. I love it. Its God's work, but loving it in a that way detracts from my ability to properly take care of myself and love my family is sin. Pray that I can be faithful to my wife and kids and get rest while also having an opportunity to enjoy some productive, satisfying writing time.

The first book is about living with clarity and simplicity with regard to the will of God. The focus is on what it means to be God's Images and grow in the knowledge of God's will for one's life.

The second is an exploration of externalism and how to address it. I'm convinced that Externalism is distinctive from Legalism and requires a very specific response. I'll be writing more about this in the future to be sure.

4. A bunch of other stuff. We're trying to relax, but we are also excited to get out, visit and minister to other churches.

There is a part of me that can't seriously think that anyone would read this and care enough to make it a matter of prayer, but I know that isn't true. This year in particular, I have been humbled by the interest and enthusiasm that some have demonstrated for my teaching, and now writing, ministries. It's weird, but encouraging. Thanks in advance.

Peace,

Frank