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About eight weeks ago my dad told me that my brother Michael, who is stepping into a new ministry opportunity, wanted to come visit me. The next week we had videocall, and planned for him to come on July 12 (today).

At first i approached my brothers visit as a field-survey trip like when missionary friends came in January.

but then I realized he didn’t come to see the field….

He came to be with me!

Of course, we will visit many areas of Saint Vincent, and he will meet my coworkers. But the focus of the trip is to encourage me and make good memories. He told my parents the first thing he wanted to do after confirming his new ministry role was to visit John.

My brothers visit reminds me we must work hard….

but seasons of refreshment and enjoyment must be added too.

Taking time for fellowship and relaxation has many benefits

1. It gives you time to process things (plan) as you aren’t so busy
2. It refreshes you mentally, emotionally, and spiritually
3. You have a clearer understanding of God’s Will
4. and you enter ministry with renewed energy

Though seasons of refreshment help, most don’t experience them, because they won’t take the time.

in most cases you CAN take the time, but choose not to because “there are too many things to get done.”

So God forces us to take a season of refreshment!

As I prepare for my brother’s arrival this afternoon, I am thankful that God is glorified when we do the work. And He is also glorified when we take a step back in order to come back stronger.