Jesus often took time away to rest and you should, too. It’s essential for your well-being and your relationship with God. You’ll find that rest equips you for ministry responsibilities. If you’re feeling burnt out, spiritually weary and overwhelmed, it’s time to take a break and go on vacation.
Here are some destinations that are enjoyable, relaxing and will also deepen your connection with God.
1. The Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is known as one of the most beautiful cities in the country for good reason. Each monument has a radiance reflected in its architectural designs. It also has sparkling river views and water features reflecting city lights. If you are historically inclined, you’ll enjoy the Museums and Historical monuments around Washington, D.C.
A unique feature of the city is The Museum of the Bible. This museum brings the holy book to life by exploring artifacts that show the Bible’s narrative, history and ongoing impact. You can also engage with the Bible differently through movies, performances and live shows against immersive backdrops in the World Stage Theatre. The tabernacle inspired the theatre’s design with curved walls that invoke the image of a tent flapping in the wind.
Accommodation ranges from five-star luxury hotels to cozy vacation rentals. Whether you want to visit a Steakhouse or try Thai cuisine, you will find a restaurant to suit your taste.
2. Caribbean Inspiration Cruise
The Inspiration Cruise agency organizes faith-focused travel events throughout the year to destinations like Alaska and Hawaii. With each location, there is a different ministry that hosts the cruise and invites gospel musicians for the journey. The ship takes you to luxurious locations where you will make new friends around local cuisine, experience beautiful places and deepen your connection with God.
With the radiant sunsets, clear turquoise waters and stunning white sand beaches of the Caribbean, people can’t help but turn their hearts to God in worship. Each Caribbean destination offers something different and equally beautiful.
The sugar sand beaches of the Dominican Republic offer the perfect opportunities to slow down and take reflection walks or try desserts like paletas de coco. Explore the crystal clear water with diving and snorkeling on Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman. Alternatively, you can spend some quality time with your partner by taking a trip to the Secret Falls in Jamaica or bamboo rafting at the nature adventure park in Montego Bay.
3. Five Stones in Geneva, Ohio
If you have been feeling weary or burdened with your calling, you will feel refreshed after staying in the Tudor Style home near Lake Erie’s serene shores. It’s a home away from home with comforts like a fireplace, electric blanket and blackout curtains when you want to sleep in. You can enjoy evenings with your spouse and a cup of coffee by the firepit or extended time with God in the reading nook.
This ministry retreat center offers rest and renewal for people working in ministry at no other cost except a cleaning fee. There is no itinerary or agenda, but they offer access to the private library and pastoral counseling. Here you can fully enjoy the benefits of taking a vacation, which include reduced stress, strengthened relationships and improved physical and mental well-being.
4. Haven River Inn in the Texas Hill Country
Lamb’s Tale Ministry offers pastoral care for ministry leaders and their partners through free two-night stays. The Haven is nestled between a grove of pecan trees in Texas Hill country and has several accommodation options, from rooms in the main house to private cottages.
The area is a good change of scenery and offers a break from the busyness of ministry. You can divide your time between serene walks by the Guadalupe River and conversations around the fire pit. You will want to make a reservation at Comfort Pizza and experience the pizza menu with options such as the c.p.t pizza with pieces of smoked sausage from Fredericksburg, fresh vegetables and mozzarella.
Change Your Environment to Fully Recharge
To you, paradise might look like a sunset walk on a beach in Jamaica or a quiet stay in the country where you can pray in solitude and reflect. You might want a new experience or an adventurous trip to the city.
Either way, rest is essential and pastors and ministry leaders must take time off regularly in different environments to recharge. Even if you’re on a tight budget, some people offer their homes and hotels free for you to take some time off.
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