Here are some ways you can be praying for Rob and his family during his sabbatical:
May 5 – June 14
(Rob's focus will be on disconnecting from his ministry and reconnecting with God.)
-Pray that he would joyfully let go of the need to be in control and in the know.
-Pray that he would flourish in his reading of the Word, not always thinking of how to teach the Scripture but instead being content to hear from God and grow as his child.
-Pray that he would be taught by the Spirit as he considers to what extent he has sought his worth in his ministry, sought his joy in the praise of others, and viewed himself as a pastor more than as a child of God.
-Pray that he would be receptive to whatever the Spirit teaches him during this time.
-Pray that he would genuinely rest, not only in body but also in his spirit.
June 15-July 9
(During this time, Rob will be traveling with his family and spending extended, undistracted time with them.)
-Pray for safety as they travel.
-Pray for good memories together with immediate and extended family.
-Pray for their marriage to be strengthened by the time together.
July 10-August 2
(Most of this time is to be focused on dreaming and looking ahead. The sense of urgency and immediacy that fills so much of Rob's usual schedule leaves little space for him to look ahead to the future of the church and consider big ideas. Rob hopes that these weeks without his usual tasks will enable him to spend time in prayer and thought.)
-Pray for Rob to be disciplined to not start “working” at his usual tasks.
-Pray that the Spirit would help Rob see the needs of the church and possible ways to move ahead.
-Pray that he would continue to rest and not be hindered by a desire to be productive.
-Pray that as his sabbatical ends, he would smoothly transition back into his regular tasks.