On the Road Again

Five years ago this month I was writing my first entry in "A Bird's-Eye View" and trying to crack the code on making this blog thing work.  (For a refresher on my trip to the Gulf Coast hit some of the old links in the side bar.)  The saints of Valmont Presbyterian Church, in their wisdom, have granted me the benefit of a sabbatical leave each five years.  The win-win effect of such farsightedness is that the church benefits in the long run.

Certainly I am able to recharge my batteries, regain my focus, catch a second wind, (insert your favorite idiom), etc.  But the subtler effect is a strengthening of the church.  To be sure, I return from sabbatical with a new insight into the larger work of God’s kingdom which translates into new possibilities and ministries that open new doors of discipleship and growth in the church.

However, my absence in and of itself is a time of opportunity and growth for Valmont Church.  Maybe I’m the only one, but I tend to put off a task or neglect a skill until forced into action.  I believe this is true of the gifts of the church, as well.  One of the strengths of the Presbyterian Church is that of shared leadership.  Valmont Church ,without its pastor, will not flail around aimlessly, like a chicken with its head cut off.  Rather, they will find that “Christ is the head of the church.”  I am excited to see where the Spirit will be leading us when I return.

iXs,

            the Rev