Sabbatical weeks 2 and 3

Just a quick update on what’s happening these days…

I intended to write this update last weekend, but I’ve been busy writing and editing.  I’m happy to say that the first draft of the manuscript is complete!!  Weighing in (right now) at 246 pages, stage one is complete.  Now begins the editing and rewriting, which is what I’m spending large chunks of time doing these days.  The working title as of today is Lead: Leadership Lessons from the (Not So) Minor Prophets.

I also started another project, just for fun.  I’m writing a novel about the prophet Haggai’s story.  I’ve always loved that book, and I’m working to put his story to paper as a novel.  I’m thirty pages in, and we’ll see if this ever sees the light of day.  For now, it’s a nice break from the editing, formatting, and rewriting I’m doing on the other book.

During my sabbatical, I’m doing a 90 day Bible reading plan from YouVersion (free app for your smart phone or tablet).  I finished Judges this morning, and am planning to complete it prior to the end of my sabbatical time.  I think reading large chunks of Scripture (about 30 minutes a day) gives you a much bigger view of the whole story of the Bible.  At least, that’s been my experience so far.

I Facetime with Charlotte and the girls almost every night, and I work out every evening in our apartment’s gym. I’m hoping to come out of this sabbatical more healthy and recharged spiritually, physically, and intellectually.

Next week I head to Jordan to join the archaeological team working on the site of Tal el-Hammam, believed by many scholars today to be the site of biblical Sodom.  I’m excited about being a part of the work there, but honestly a little nervous as I’ve never done anything like this before.  It’s going to be great!  🙂

I do appreciate your prayers more than you know!