Missionaries - Bob & Char Reehm
Dear Friends,
A fallow field is a field that is specifically left un-cultivated... no planting, or sowing or reaping. It is just left alone for a season or two. This rest phase allows the deep minerals and nutrients that have been leached out of the soil by previous harvests to be replaced. This ‘time off' for the soil, prepares it for future productive harvests.
It's been tough learning how to lay still; to be ‘fallow'. More than tough.... Char and I, born and raised in the Midwest, in a culture of strong work ethics, became work-a-holics. When we joined Navigator staff, we transferred this same work ethic to become ministry-a-holics. For 27years, by seldom saying "NO" to various and FRUITFUL ministry opportunities, we were slowly being drained of the necessary ‘nutrients' that will hopefully ensure future, fruitful harvests.
There is a saying, ‘When a man's output exceeds his input, then his lack of upkeep will lead to his downfall.' (Author unknown)
It was tough deciding to go on this Sabbatical It was a challenge to my faith. Could I really let go of all ministry and be content ‘to be' alone with God, in his presence alone, without ‘doing'. The first few months were spent fighting feelings of guilt for not ‘ministering'.
I've read numerous books over the past several months. Many have ministered to me. I have learned that I had a well developed theology of WORK, but no theology of REST.
When we did start to ‘REST', we figured out that we were far more tired and spiritually exhausted than we had realized. We are still in the ‘REST' phase of the Sabbatical.
However, LIFE GOES ON. We leave in the middle of June to drive back to Kansas to help Char's 82 yr. old father. He is having an estate auction, selling off the furniture, dishes, antiques, etc. from Char's childhood farm house.
We covet your prayers for:
- Our continued REST and RECOVERY
- Medical issues for Char
- For safety and energy as we drive back to Kansas.
Learning to Rest in Christ,
Bob and Char Reehm
