return from an accidental sabbath

I took an accidental sabbath from blogging. This was accidental because it wasn't planned, nor did I realize until two weeks in that blogging had fallen by the wayside. This was sabbath because it helped me to rest in areas that I needed rest, to have conversations and develop relationships that have helped contribute to the growth of ministry here, especially during my first Lent here at CLC. 

Here's the thing, though. I love blogging. I love this time to reflect on God, on the church, on our community, and on our world, hoping for the best for all. The sabbath wasn't because I wanted to get away from this. Rather, it was because I needed to spend some time doing other things. 

Things like get to know some more people here in Radford, and especially some of our neighbors nearby. Things like go bowling with the Intellectual Disabilities Agency of the New River Valley. Things like develop a more consistent habit of prayer and meditation. Things like focus on leadership development, both in the church and in our campus ministry. Good things. Wonderful things. 

Sabbath isn't just giving up things we don't want to do and resting. Sometimes sabbath is an opportunity for reorganization of our lives, of once again prioritizing our responsibilities, which means we must take a step back from some things we love to discover other blessings in our lives. 

So, I'm back, not replacing those things with blogging, but using blogging as a way to connect more deeply those experiences with the life of faith. More than just scriptural reflections or societal commentary, I hope this becomes more focused on the development of a community. One that's radically inclusive in the image of Jesus. One that seeks to value our neighbors as a key part of our kingdom community. One that focuses on raising up leaders for the advancement of God's love here in the NRV. Here I return, refreshed with hope that God has a mission for Christ Lutheran Church in this place.