The heart of my sabbatical is captured in the two phrases above: Comfortable Rest and True Work, which come from a contemporary translation of Benedict’s Rule. In an increasingly busy and chaotic culture, one that is only accelerated here in Silicon Valley, finding such a “comfortable rest” sounds impossible.

And yet, two recent monastic retreats have convinced me of the importance of finding just such a rest—one based in thanksgiving and open to the full promise of the gospel. The first aim of my time apart will be to establish a daily rhythm of silence, prayer and contemplation to re-orient both my routine and my spirit.

Out of this comfortable rest I hope to discover what Benedict called “the joy of the true Work” to which we are called. As my life as a Pastor is consumed with meetings, budgets, and phone calls, it is tempting slip into a “shopkeeper” mentality. I hope to provide space for a deep listening to my own life and to my call to pastor.

I plan extensive reading in the Benedictine tradition, to practice daily spiritual disciplines, and to engage in two silent retreats.