In the Fall of 2021, the Board of Directors at DSBC gifted me and my family a three month sabbatical. This extended time away was designed to provide an opportunity for me to invest more in my marriage and family, to rest and reflect, and to heal from some of the pain that I have been carrying over the last 18 months.
There were so many fun, powerful and contemplative moments for me during this time and I look forward to sharing in the future. For now, and for the sake of brevity, I share just a few highlights below:
Part I – An Extended Date with Lori
U.K. & France
I kicked off the sabbatical with my favorite person in the world. We visited various spots in England and France. We had a ton of fun exploring, connecting with each other and, on occasion, sleeping in. For Lori and me, this was a magical experience full of discovery, wonder and really good food (in France, not in England).
Bookstores in Europe are amazing. 
The Mona Lisa was smaller than I thought it would be. 
“The Love Wall” in Paris with mi amore. 
The house of John Knox, a pastor that was executed not far from this location. 
The U.S. cemetery in Normandy was powerful. We also visited a British and German cemetery. 
Clowning in front of a church that holds an original copy of the Magna Carta.
Part II – Reading & Reflection
Cambridge, U.K.
After Lori flew home, I traveled to Cambridge, UK and stayed at a theological research library called Tyndale House. I spent a lot of time reading, chasing down footnotes, and allowing my curiosity to guide my studies. It was so freeing to read without a deadline, sermon, or school project due. I also spent a lot of time taking long walks in this ancient town, exploring small corners of this ancient town and breathing in the fresh air of the English countryside. I felt like I had time to truly rest, pray and reflect. I was also blessed to spend time with my mentor from seminary, Pastor Tim Savage, who lives in there.
My desk at Tyndale House, where I spent most of my days. 
Yes, the desk was in the aisle. Luckily the books near me weren’t super popular. 
One of my favorite spots to walk, a few miles outside of Cambridge. 
Fish & Chips at the spot Watson & Crick announced they found “the secret of life” (DNA). 
Evensong at St. Johns College. 
Had a pint at C.S. Lewis’ old haunt.
Part III – Family Fun
Orlando, Florida
I flew home for a couple days of rest before taking the family to Orlando for three weeks. We had a blast exploring the Kennedy Space Center and other local attractions, including a LOT of time at Disney. The majority of this time was filled with days of laughter, child-like wonder and the joy of watching our kids delight in these experiences. Though, the 7th time on “It’s a Small World After All” did prove to be a moment of testing for me. But, my 2 year old LOVED it!
Mikayla and I rode this coaster a dozen times. 
We were really drawn to this event. 
Phoenicians learning about cacti from a Floridian. 
Isaiah and I were captured by the Empire. 
It’s a small world after all, no matter how many times you ride it. 
The Kennedy Space Center was stellar!
Part IV – Counseling Intensive
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
We traveled back home for the Thanksgiving holiday. The following week I traveled to Tennessee to engage in a week-long, one-on-one intensive counseling program at Sage Hill. This was truly a powerful time of processing, reflection and healing. I am so thankful to the team at Sage Hill for their ministry to me. Oh, and while I was there, I got a chance to visit my great-great-great-great-great-grandfather’s grave in Ditty, TN. He fought in the war of 1812 (His grandfather fought in the American Revolution).
The final resting place of Daniel Campbell. 
Healing & soul care at Sage Hill Counseling. 
The Union Cemetery at Stones River.
As I write this recap, I am flooded with feelings of joy and gratitude for the time away. It was fun, refreshing, and healing. I am also really glad to be back. I have never felt more committed to and empowered for the mission that I believe God has for me, even in this challenging and chaotic season. I love Jesus, my family, my community and my church and I am looking forward to the years to come.