Thoughts on my Sabbatical
In January 2026, I will have completed two consecutive, three-year terms as an elder / pastor at Grace Rancho. Serving Grace Rancho and seeing God at work in the hearts and lives of our church members has been an immense privilege, one of the greatest joys of my life. Per the Grace Rancho bylaws, I’ll be taking a mandated, one-year sabbatical in 2026. Recently, I interviewed myself and am sharing it with you to help you understand the reason for the sabbatical and how I plan to steward this opportunity.
Why are you taking a sabbatical?
At Grace Rancho, our goal is to encourage pastoral ministry for the long haul. Taking this year off from official eldering provides an opportunity for rest, refreshment, and reflection on future ministry.
How are you feeling about your sabbatical?
On one hand, I’ll miss the formal work of eldering and the joy I experience in serving alongside the other elders. I love these men and am so grateful for the unique privilege to co-labor with and learn from them. On the other hand, I’m genuinely thankful for the chance to take a step back from official responsibilities and embrace ministry as an ordinary member!
I’m also grateful for our church to be reminded again that Christ is building His church and that His work isn’t dependent upon any single person or leader!
What will you do with your extra time?
I will be present at Grace Rancho and, with God’s help, will seek to shepherd, encourage, teach, and counsel the saints in lots of informal ways. By grace, my desire is to be active in making disciples, supporting the ministry of the elders, and doing all I can to build the congregation up in love.
I’m looking forward to having a bit more margin in my life to spend with Jodi and the kids. Additionally, my goal is to work on a couple of not-urgent, but strategic projects. One, I’ll be curating a list of resources that will help Grace Rancho members become more firmly established in sound doctrine, ecclesiology, and gospel-shaped culture. I’ll be seeking lots of input from our members, so don’t be surprised if I ask for your insight and perspective!
Two, I’ll spend time praying and planning for how I can faithfully disciple my children and future grandchildren in this next season of my life. I’m 51 now, I have two married children, an almost college graduate, and two teenagers. For however many years the Lord gives me, my desire is to shepherd my family toward generational faithfulness to Christ.
Please pray for me to steward my time wisely as I labor and as I rest.
Do you plan to return to official pastoral ministry at Grace Rancho in 2027?
My aspiration is to be back on the elder board in 2027. Ultimately, this will be based on the desire of the elders and the vote of the congregation.
