The Role of Rest and Renewal in Leadership Success

Steve W. Raimo
This article provided by the Engstrom Institute

The Northwest Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God recently enacted a policy providing sabbatical leaves for senior executives during their seventh year of continued service. This policy does not negate weekly days of rest or nullify vacations during the year of the sabbatical. According to Network executives who have had opportunity to take advantage of this policy, they lauded its benefit to them personally and its benefit to the organization as they returned "refreshed, renewed, and ready to re-engage" (D. Cole, personal communication, September 25, 2008). Subsequently, the Network executive team encouraged churches to consider adopting a similar sabbatical policy for their pastoral staff members.

As such, a study was conducted to investigate rest and renewal as applied in Assembly of God churches located in the Northwest region (Washington and panhandle of Idaho). First, the study's intent was to determine whether adequate weekly Sabbath rest is provided and, if not, help church leadership implement actions that ensure pastoral staff receive sufficient rest. The study also included research as to whether churches implemented a sabbatical policy for their pastoral staff and, if not, collaborate with them to enact a change in what is together regarded as a desirable direction.

During the initial phase of the study, more than 10% of the 320 churches in the Northwest region were contacted. While all church representatives understand the problematic situation associated with burnout among pastors, upon initial call, enacting change to ensure adequate Sabbath rest is amenable to them but not a sabbatical leave policy.

Since the surveyed churches are located in a large geographic region, representatives chose to receive a short essay offering support that contributes to both the practical concerns of Sabbath rest and of sabbatical leaves of absence, included below titled, Addressing the Issues: Rest and Renewal. This document was sent to each church with the understanding that a follow-up call would be received to ascertain if the essay's content resulted in a change regarding Sabbath rest and sabbatical leaves.

After three weeks, a follow-up survey was conducted to determine if the information provided had an impact that changed their decisions regarding Sabbath rest and sabbatical leave policies. In all situations, churches reported no change in guidelines or policies. All church representatives stated they clearly understood the essay received and found the information beneficial. They all concurred there was adequate time given to for all leadership members to read, absorb, and discuss the content of the essay, however concluded no actions would be implemented at this time with regards to either days off or sabbaticals for pastoral staff members. Furthermore, the four churches that have granted sabbaticals determined they would not write a sabbatical policy; they did not want to be bound by a written document.

Addressing the Issues: Rest and Renewal

Sabbath Rest

The relentless pace of contemporary society overwhelms our sense of time as a gift from God (Sherman, 2005). As such, pastors allow their sense of obligation to the ministry to blind the need to observe a portion of this gift as Sabbath rest. Not only do pastors fail to allow themselves adequate rest, they increase their work-related hours in an attempt to get it all done. A study conducted by Thornton (2007), though not specific to pastors, supports this. He reports that the average number of daily work hours for Americans has actually increased by 14.5% over the past eight years, from 40.1 hours per workweek to 46 hours. Among American leaders, the increase is even more dramatic, 22%. As a result, the average workweek increased from 45.9 to 56 hours per week (Thornton, 2007), leaving very little time for rest.

We recognize that, in and of itself, the responsibility of leadership is stressful and the impact of stress on the human body can be significant (McKee, Johnson & Massimilian, 2006). Dr. Kenneth Greenspan, director of the Centre of Stress Related Disorders at New York's Presbyterian Hospital, claims that if the body does not have opportunity to rest and renew itself, the resulting efforts can be dramatic. He maintains that stress contributes to 90% of all diseases; over half of all visits to doctors are stress-related (as cited in Croucher, n.d.). When coupled with the increased work week and the unwritten 24/7 availability expectation of some parishioners, it is no wonder 1,500 pastors leave their assignments every month in the United States, in part, because of burnout (Sande, n.d.)?

If indeed we truly believe Jesus' retort to the religious leaders that "The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27, KJ), our responsibility is to understand its meaning. Why is the Sabbath made for man? What is its benefit? Is there some correlation between us being created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and the seventh day of creation (Genesis 2:2-3)?

During creation, God includes a day of rest. Since he neither sleeps nor slumbers (Psalm 121:4), it would follow that this day was not set apart so he could recover from a strenuous week's work. It appears, when taking into consideration God's directives in other scriptural texts, this day is, as stated in Mark, made to benefit man. God made this day holy and instructed the Israelites, beginning during their escape from Egypt in Exodus 16:23, that this seventh day "is the rest of the holy Sabbath unto the Lord." When he gave the Ten Commandments, God expressly directs Israel to "remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy" (Exodus 20:8, KJ). Later, in the Levitical law, God reiterates this command when he says, "Six days shall work be done; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of rest, a holy convocation; you shall do no work therein; it is the Sabbath of the Lord in all your dwellings" (Leviticus 23:3, KJ).

There are two distinct purposes brought out in these passages concerning this observance. First, we rest on one day because God did; we follow obediently the pattern he set at creation. Hebraic observance in this instance signifies acknowledging the holiness of God (Bass, 2005). As God took time to reflect on his creation, we take time to reflect on his goodness, his faithfulness, his grace, his mercy, and his holiness. Sabbath rest may indeed be an act of sacramental worship to a loving God (Mark-Stuart, 1998).

Secondly, resting one day is clearly for the benefit of man's body and soul. When considering the human body, it is known that muscle cells are actually lost in the process of physical work, yet the body relies on periods of rest to replace lost cells and add new ones to strengthen the muscle. It is in these periods of rest, muscle actually grows. Without this rest, the muscle would fail entirely. Similarly, renewing the soul requires periods of rest. Stress tears down, rest restores, renews, and builds (Watson, 1998). Again reflecting back on Mark 2:27, the Sabbath rest allows us opportunity to "Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for God" (Psalm 37:7a), allowing his renewing and regenerating work to be completed in us.

Norman Wirzba (2005) gives a poignant example of Sabbath rest observance from his childhood while growing up on a farm. "Why would anyone work much of the year preparing a field and a crop for harvest and then, in the middle of a relatively short harvest season, sometimes with full knowledge that it would rain tomorrow, stop to rest? Sabbath observance could, and in several instances did, result in serious financial loss as crop quality was compromised or the crop itself (if the weather didn't improve) was simply left in the field to rot" (p.26).

Although outside observers could contend their refusal to bail hay or bring in grain on Sunday purely an action born out of stubborn habit, observing the principle of Sabbath rest was an act of relinquishing control and trusting the grace of God. Sunday showed respect for the God's gift of life, it provided pause to reflect on his goodness, and provided rest for the body—even for the animals living on the farm (Wirzba, 2005).

From an economic standpoint, Sabbath observance makes no sense at all. However, as stated, this time of rest and reflection is not just about economics. Dallas Willard (2002) makes a poignant observation when he states, "Bluntly, to serve God well we must think straight; and crooked thinking, unintentional or not, always favors evil" (p.106). As such, can it be theorized that if Sabbath rest is observed and sufficient, it could be a contributing factor that may possibly reduce the number of pastors leaving the ministry monthly, some due to burnout, others to the inability to resolve conflict, and still others due to moral failure (Sande, n.d.)?

Sabbatical Leave

The word sabbatical can be defined and described as follows: "A sabbatical (from the Latin sabbaticus, from the Greek sabbatikos, from Hebrew shabbathon, i.e., Sabbath) is a rest from work, a hiatus, typically lasting two or more months. The concept of a sabbatical has a source in several places in the Bible (Leviticus 25, for example), where there is a commandment to desist from working the fields in the seventh year. In the strict sense therefore, a sabbatical lasts a year. In recent times, a sabbatical has come to mean any extended absence in the career of an individual. In the modern sense, one takes a sabbatical typically to merely take a break from work or to fulfill some goal, e.g., writing a book or http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travel">traveling extensively for research" ("Sabbatical," n.d.).

God required that land remain fallow during a sabbatical year. God also made provision for debtors to be released from creditors (Deuteronomy 15:1-8) and servants to be released from their masters (Exodus 21:1-6) as part of a sabbatical "Year of Release." Moreover, God's intention was for these former debtors and servants not to enter into such servitude again, thus required that during this year (at the Feast of Tabernacles) the Law be read to the former debtors and servants so they might learn and not have to become poor again (Deuteronomy 31:9-13).

These biblical principles have, as stated, been adapted into modern culture for the benefit of the individual and the benefit of the organization. To list a few examples; colleges and universities grant sabbatical leave so individuals can engage in research or write a book ("Application for Sabbatical Leave—University of Illinois," 2009), or to foster professional growth ("Sabbatical Leave FPG Program," 2009), sabbaticals are given to provided spiritual renewal for pastors and staff (Northcott, n.d.), and military personnel could be offered a sabbatical leave for up to three years for personal and professional reasons (Maze, 2008). Of special consideration, however, it must be noted that sabbaticals are not vacations (which are for the family's benefit), they provide personal benefit but, to a larger extent, they provide professional benefit to the organization.

For the pastor, a sabbatical is intended to provide an extended period for renewal and reinvigoration of the mind and heart through research, purposeful travel, writing, etc. In essence, the goal is to enable the preacher to rejuvenate in body, soul, and spirit. The role of a pastor, if done faithfully, is one of the most taxing professions demanding many skills. It is not only emotionally taxing, but also physically and spiritually taxing (Schmucker, 2007). Thus, these extended periods provide a benefit not attained through Sabbath rest.

Matt Schmucker (2007) provides some practical advice for church leadership boards who may be considering providing sabbaticals for their pastoral staff. This list is somewhat lengthy but the supporting explanations provide clarity:

• Start out small: If the church has never considered giving a pastor a sabbatical and seems resistant, start out small and let the idea grow. Have a five or ten year plan in your mind.
• Start out small (again!): A "preaching sabbatical" relieves the pastor of preaching responsibilities to allow more time for reading and research but where he continues his other regular duties.
• Care for the congregation: The purpose of the sabbatical will not be accomplished if the pastor is regularly interrupted to provide care for the congregation. Therefore, a plan must be in place to provide pastoral care coverage when the pastor begins his/her sabbatical leave.
• Plan the sabbatical: A formal plan must be in place to ensure the purpose of the sabbatical is achieved.
• Involve the congregation: The pastor must share with the congregation his plans, prior to his leaving, so they can join him in his excitement and pray for fruit.
• Consider the season: There are seasons in a church's life that need to be considered in scheduling a sabbatical.
• Communicate: While on sabbatical, the pastor should consider regular communication with his congregation.
• Set parameters: If the pastor does not leave town, both pastor and church should have some have boundaries established to ensure the purpose of the sabbatical is achieved.
• Be accountable: A system of accountability should be established between the pastor on sabbatical and a fellow pastor/elder or board—leader to leader.
• Plan for the return: Consider returning a few days prior to resuming duties to ensure a smoother transition, getting organized and reacquainted with both people and situations. The pastor also needs to remember that the congregation was not on sabbatical; it may need to be eased into his new ideas and renewed energy (p.1).

Contemplating such an intervention on behalf of the pastoral staff can be daunting and the outcomes for both pastor and congregation can be detrimental unless its implementation is purposeful and thoughtful.

Final Thoughts

While rest is counter-culture in this current 24/7 global economy, it is an essential characteristic of effective leadership (Hoomans, 2009). We all know the biblical imperative, however, many pastors sabotage their own success and effectiveness or that of church congregations by failing to leverage it in their lives. As such, the journey to renewal must begin with honest, thoughtful, and compassionate reflection and is available to anyone willing to embark upon it (McKee, Johnson & Massimilian, 2006). Unfortunately, being honest is sometimes the hardest step. It is difficult, while in the fury of activity, to step back and acknowledge our mortality. The independent "I can do it all" mentality of our society and the expectation for continuous excellence takes its toll on even the most tenacious. Sabbath rest provides not only a respite for body, soul, and spirit but is an act of worship unto God, giving opportunity to pause and reflect on his holiness, goodness, faithfulness, grace, and mercy.

The sabbatical leave has its roots in Scripture and in church tradition; it is a viable solution to the atypical stresses and strains pastors encounter. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) gives this excellent analogy of a pastor:

"Someone has compared the life of a minister with that of a taxi leaving an airport. It is so loaded down with passengers and suitcases and the other items that the car has a hard time even moving and is strained to the point of breaking, yet the taxi may be only a few years old. So it is with clergy. They bear the burdens, the anguish, the pain, and hurt of their parishioners 24-7. That is 24 hours, seven days a week. As a result, many, if not all, experience to one degree or another symptoms of emotional collapse, stress related illnesses, and "burnout" adversely affecting the minister's personal, family, and parish life, and greatly diminishing his or her effectiveness and well-being. For too long, this situation has been accepted, even tolerated as an inevitable part of the job" ("Rationale for Sabbatical Leave," 2008).

Sabbaticals are not vacations. They are, on the other hand, not work-less and not intended to benefit the pastor's family. A sabbatical is specifically aimed at refreshing and renewing the mind and heart of the pastor (Schmucker, 2007) it benefits both pastor and congregation. For the pastor, it infuses new life into him/her, sharpens ministry skills, helps him/her refocus their calling and mission, helps deepen their commitment and appreciation to the congregation, and creates in the pastor a new resolve to service. For the church congregation, it helps them focus on and engage more in ministry, creates a renewed appreciation for the pastor, they are blessed by a revival of mutual devotion of the pastor and the members, and they benefit from the greater effectiveness of the pastor following a time of spiritual renewal, rest, and growth (Northcott, n.d.).

The commitment to the Church's success must translate into a commitment to its pastoral leadership. Church leadership boards, recognizing the uniqueness of this profession/calling and the responsibilities of their pastors, which transcend other professions, have mutual responsibility to ensure adequate time of rest, renewal, and restoration.

Bibliography

Application for Sabbatical Leave—University of Illinois (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.vpaa.uillinois.edu/Policies/sabbatical.pdf.

Bass, D. C. (2005). Christian Formation in and for Sabbath Rest. Interpretation. January, 25-37.

Cole, D. (Assistant Superintendant). Personal communication, September 25, 2008

Croucher, R. (n.d.). Stress and Burnout in Ministry. Retrieved from http://www.churchlink.com.au/churchlink/forum/r_croucher/stress_burnout.html.

Hoomans, J. (2009). Lessons in Leadership: Rest or Fail. Strategic Leadership Insights. Vol. 2, No. 1. Retrieved from http://www.roberts.edu/Academics/Academic Divisions/BusinessManagement/msl/Community/Journal/LessonsinLeadershipRestorFail.htm.

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Maze, R. (2008). DoD Plan Would Allow Sabbaticals up to 3 Years. Retrieved from http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/03/army_sabbatical_ 033108w/

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Sabbatical Leave FPG Program (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.mcli.dist.maricopa.edu/fpg/sabbaticals.html.

Sande, K. (n.d.). Strike the Shepherd—Losing Pastors in the Church. Retrieved from http://www.peacemaker.net/site/apps/nlnet/content3.aspx?c= aqKFLTOBIpH&b= 1084263&content_id=%7B7A3375ED-91B4-4CC9-91D0-228B9375D2C2%7D&notoc=1.

Schmucker, M. (2007). Caring for the Pastor: The Sabbatical. Retrieved from http://www.9marks.org/CC/article/0,,PTID314526%7CCHID598014%7CCIID2309204,00.html

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Willard, Dallas Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ. NavPress, Colorado Springs, Co. 2002.

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Steve Raimo has over 25 years of experience in accounting, finance, budgeting, business management, and organizational management, leadership, and design serving in the U.S. and Africa with multi-national corporations, small business, government, and non-profits. He currently serves as executive pastor for LifePoint Church in Vancouver, WA and is a doctoral student at Regent University's School of Global Leadership & Entrepreneurship. Steve's articles have been published in the Enrichment Journal, EmergingLeaders.com, and ChristianFutures.com. Steve can be reached at swraimo@hotmail.com.