I love the sun in my face in the morning

I love the sun in my face in the morning

It makes me feel alive! We've all been there. Perhaps its sitting in a duck blind or a deer stand. Been there an hour or two. At first it's dark and you're there set up. And then you begin to be able to see things around you. Eventually, you can make out the muy grande that's miraculously turned into a stump. And then it's shooting time. Every breath hangs in excitement. Cold creeps in. Any minute now... The top of the sun breaks over the horizon officially signaling a new day. I like to travel. Mostly, I like to travel…
Margin

Margin

Margin... I like the sound of the word. According to Merriam-Webster, one of it's uses is: an area, state, or condition excluded from or existing outside the mainstream.I understand this. And know people living there. Some by choice, some because of circumstances. I often gravitate to these margins, outside mainstream. Another is: a spare amount or measure or degree allowed or given for contingencies or special situations. This seems wise. According to Richard Swenson, in his book by the same name, Margin is the space between or load and our limits. It is the amount allowed beyond that which is…
Gene’s Sabbatical Adventure, Issue 5 : March 30, 2024

Gene’s Sabbatical Adventure, Issue 5 : March 30, 2024

I just finished a 2 month sabbatical. Cru’s updated sabbatical policy provides for and encourages missionary staff to take a 2 month sabbatical after 5 years serving full-time and then every 5 years until 20 years serving full-time, when sabbatical is 3 months. Heather and I approaching 14 years. Such a blessing. Such an honor. It was hard to step away from ministry and leadership responsibilities for a season. But I am so glad that I did. During the planning process, I uncovered 4 priority issues that needed to be addressed: Margin (or lack of margin felt as always being…