September 2022
Thank you Crestview Church!
When the council graced me with a sabbatical some time ago, I was filled with anticipation of what this time could be. To summarize in one sentence, this sabbatical time has enriched my relationship with God, Deone, my family, and some significant long term friendships.
Since the last sent update of sabbatical, Deone and I have had extended time together on the open road, living out of a tent, sleeping under the stars, with a ‘front row ticket to God’s theatre’ (quote from Eugene Peterson) in places like the Tetons, Yellowstone, Glacier, the Sawtooth Mountains (Idaho), Bryce, Zion, the Grand Canyon, Canyon of the Ancients, and Ouray/Ridgway.
We watched the moon wax and wane for days, woke up to sunshine on our face each morning, making coffee and frying eggs and toast on a camping stove before heading out for a hike, a float, or a bike ride. And all the while, sharing it together in tandem company with each other and God. I trust you can ‘hear and see’ the goodness of God to us in the gift of sabbatical that you all, as a faith community, have given to us.
We look forward to a return to the regular ministry rhythms and relationships with everyone that have been put on necessary pause during this sabbatical time. See you soon.
On September 25th, my plan (Lord willing) is to give some further insight into the ways God has met me through his Word, Spirit, Creation, and people.
Shalom,
Pastor Mark