We’ve returned from the wonderful first leg of our sabbatical (”Paul and the Roman Empire” in Turkey) and a relaxing visit back to Jerusalem to reconnect with friends and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the the Holy Land.  We are now into the second leg (work on converting our small barn into a retreat space).  This second leg will take all of June and no doubt parts of the rest of the summer.

We’ve been cycling and writing and resting and running (at least Michael has been running!) and reading and eating and praying.  Having this time is a great gift for which we are tremendously thankful both to you and to the Lilly Endowment.

It’s apparent that Greg is shepherding you into green pastures beside still waters, with gentle reminders that this sabbatical is a shared experience.  One of our sabbatical disciplines has been to care for all of you in prayer–a “hands-off, hearts-on” discipline.  It’s qualitatively different, but good.  A steady reliance upon grace.

May God continue to bless this time and graciously guide us all into refreshment and renewal!
Pastors Michael and Susan

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