Rev. Samuel Robles Jr.

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. (Mark 1:35 NIV84)



Last week, my family and I decided to take a week of rest. It wasn't a vacation because we didn't totally disconnect from everything. Instead, we were intentional about taking a break to spend quality time together, evaluating our lives and ministry(ies), and discussing setting boundaries. If I could sum this up in a phrase, we wanted to feel normal.

Here are just 7 things we learned, or rather, here are a few things we decided to accept and implement into our pastoral family for the sake of our health and commitment to each other:

1) It's ok to say "no." We are not omnipresent, and we don't need to feel bad about it.
2) Family time is sacred time. Protect it.
3) Taking time to rest as a family needs to be intentional. No one is going to set it aside for us.
4) We are allowed to have fun, too.
5) Be honest in all things. In all things, be honest.
6) All that matters is our obedience to God and God's call. Stay focused.
7) A healthy pastor leads a healthy church. If I am rested, rejuvenated and refreshed, then I can be an effective leader and pastor.

Leadership is a process of influence. Anytime you seek to influence the thinking, behavior, or development of people toward accomplishing a goal in their personal or professional lives, you are taking on the role of a leader.

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