When my children were young and needed the occasional reminder that they had rules to follow, I would place them in “time out.” Sometimes this was helpful in correcting their behavior, sometimes not. But I still believe the time out was valuable. Time out gives time to calm down, time to re-think behavior and, allows breathing room for everyone. Time out can provide space for grace. Jesus said to his disciples in Mark 6:31, “Come away with me. Let us go alone to a quiet place and rest for a while.” The text says there were so many people coming and going that the disciples didn’t have time to eat. Jesus called them away, offering them a time out from the demands of ministry, and offering them time in his presence.
Friends, I want to share with you that I am taking a time out. I will be on sabbatical leave from New World for the month of July. I am taking a time out for renewal, for restoration and for prayer. As I take this time away from the demands of ministry, I ask for your prayers. I also ask your prayers for the church, that God will continue to strengthen and to bless in my absence. I want to thank you for granting me space for God’s grace to revive and restore. I look forward to returning in August to continue serving in ministry with you.

Grace & Peace
Pastor Lucretia