Relieved

This morning I did my work in the kitchen. But in the afternoon I was able to attend a small prayer gathering in the chapel. However, before we began to pray I was able to sit down and have a private conversation with my chaplain...

I shared what was in my heart while he listened intently. I asked that I be relieved of my duties as the worship leader on Sunday mornings. Also, that I be allowed to take a back seat from being behind the pulpit. Thankfully, my chaplain understood my needs and granted my request. I was given a six month "sabbatical."

Actually it's not a sabbatical, but this term will suffice. Now the associate pastor, Felipe, will take on the role of inmate pastor, for which he is well qualified. Meanwhile, I will remain very involved in the church. I shall help with setting up our sound equipment, and I'll be an usher. This will also allow me to function in what I believe is my primary gift: being an encourager.

Such a change is obviously a major one. Yet it'll take some pressure off me. I will return to greeting the men as each one enters the chapel. And I'll still be available to go before the congregation to share a message from the Scriptures or to give an exhortation, if needed. Best of all, such a change will allow me to have more time to write. This was an answer to prayer.

D.B.