Renewal leaves – more often called sabbaticals – are intentional times away from the rhythms of work life. In academia, sabbaticals are often times for intentional and intense writing and publishing, research and data collection. But in the church, leaders are specifically encouraged not to work during their time away. A renewal leave is just what it sounds like: time for renewal.
That’s not easy for me. I can hardly imagine what it will be like to not work, to not have a big project, to not be on a deadline for something. So, I struggled a little when I was first asked what I planned to do during my renewal leave. But now, I think I have it figured out.
I will enjoy creating things.
I really enjoy tinkering in my workshop. I don’t have a dedicated space for all of my tools and stuff. They’re all tucked away in the little recesses of our garage, sharing space with our cars, water toys, and bikes. But the thought of having the luxury of time to just be in there, to let my creativity flow and make something grand or teeny or useful or useless or pretty or Frankenstein-ish… that sounds absolutely lovely. And a great way to do something while also not working!
My creativity will no doubt be expressed in other ways, too. I do imagine that I will spend a good deal of time writing. Whether anything I write ends up being published is hardly the point; I just know that I do my best thinking and processing with the written word.
I’m certain that creativity is an essential part of our faith. We are all created in the image of God, and God is the Master Tinkerer. We are called to participate with God in the ongoing process of creation, adding our own little dash of color to the world. (This is one of the reasons that I love our annual Art Gallery & Gala at CtK! It gives us all an opportunity to express our faith through art, and then we get to celebrate together and learn from each other in seeing what everyone has made. Make sure you come to our Art Gallery & Gala this year on Saturday, November 6th from 5:00-7:00pm!)
Do you feel the same way about creativity and faith? If so, I’d LOVE to learn more about how creativity is expressed in your life.
Peace,
Pastor Tim