Excellence honors God. I am not referring to some kind of snooty perfectionism, but instead, the pursuit and practice of being and doing the very best possible for the glory of God.

During my journey of breast cancer and chemotherapy this past year, I was forced to take breaks from the normal rhythm and tempo of my life. When taking inventory of my life, the greatest realization was that there are things that must change. I must regain the vision of excellence for myself and for Fern Creek Baptist Church.

Now back into the regular routine, life is not much different. The vision is in the deep recesses of my mind, and it often gets overshadowed and blurred by constant distractions misplaced priorities. My heart’s desire is to lead the church to be the excellent church found in Acts 2:42-47; my heart’s desire is to truly be a person who glorifies God by living Philippians 2:1-11.

My request for a sabbatical grant from you is to aid in regaining the vision of excellence. To accomplish this goal as it applies to the church, I would like to spend time visiting excellent churches. Several years ago I read “Excellent Protestant Congregations” by Paul Wilkes and have had a deep desire to visit many of those since that time. To worship with these congregations and spend time talking with the leadership, especially the Pastors and Ministers of Music, would be extremely helpful in this pursuit.

To accomplish this goal of regaining a vision of excellence as it applies to me personally, I truly know what I need; however, I must admit that my schedule has been out of control for some time and a sabbatical would be a great help in giving myself “permission” to do what I need to do. I realize the need for spiritual renewal through a period of quiet time of prayer and through communion with God through His Word. I also sense a great need for physical refreshment. I would also like to rekindle family and friend relationships on a deeper level.