When was the last time you've taken a break? I don't mean a quick breather. I'm talking about a genuine period when you set aside the weight of ministry to relax, refocus, and recharge.
Those of us active in ministry often find genuine rest hard. Passion for our Lord and His call drives us to work harder than everyone else, especially when in leadership. At least, that's how we explain it. Add to this accumulated needs, the tyranny of the urgent, the particular circumstances of our ministry, and the expectations other place on us, it's understandable how some ministers find genuine rest hard to come by.
Our experience with COVID 19 has certainly exasperated this, given the necessary adjustments to our ministry mechanics. I've heard several pastors say that they have never worked harder and longer than they have since this all began. More than a few are exhausted.
Yet scripture affirms the principle of sabbath rest, and Jesus himself both modeled and taught it. In Mark 6:31, after his disciples returned from their first two-by-two mission trips, Jesus said, "Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while."
So, let me just say it. Pastors, staff ministers, everybody, if you haven't taken vacation recently, TAKE IT! And ditto for your regular, weekly time off. I spoke to one pastor where I formerly served who said he hadn't had vacation in at least 5 years. That's not good for him, nor for the church, and it does not honor the Lord. If Jesus thought it necessary for His disciples to take a break, we better believe that it is necessary for us.
And church, help your pastor and staff feel free to take that time away. This is not a perk of the office. Setting aside the time, budget for pulpit supply, and personnel to cover their responsibilities while they are away is part of your responsibility. And if they cannot afford to get away, bless them with the resources. Even a weekend at the beach or trip back home can bless them, refreshing them for the next season of ministry.
How you spend the time away is another conversation. What matters is that you shed the weight of ministry for a period and relax. Feast your soul on the Lord and His word, but set aside the rest. I know it's easier said than done. It can be difficult turning your mind away from that "to-do" list with its deadlines. But it will ever happen if you don't priorities the time.
So take a break. Breathe. Have fun. And remember, if I can serve you in any way I'm just a call away. Well, I will be after my break.
Blessings,
Jim
