From the Desk of Pastor Brandon

Good morning, Reader,

Summer’s here—and if your house is like mine, that means kids at home, trips on the calendar, and ministry still marching on. As Andy Stanley wisely said, this isn’t a problem to solve, but a tension to manage.

Balancing family time and church responsibilities isn’t just a summer thing—it’s an all-year tension. The stakes feel higher now because our families are more present, but the truth is, the demand never really disappears.

When I first stepped into ministry, I was single and all-in—late nights, early mornings, endless prep. But marriage changed that. Then came kids. And suddenly, I realized I couldn’t sustain that rhythm and keep my family healthy. Ministry wasn’t meant to cost us everything at home.

Over time, I saw friends doing great in ministry but hurting deeply at home—some even stepping away because their marriages or families were falling apart. That’s when I started asking: Did God call us to build His church at the expense of our own homes? I don’t think so.

We’ve created a 24/7 ministry model that’s unsustainable and unhealthy. Always available. Always producing. Always proving. But ministry doesn’t have to look like that.

So this summer, here’s your permission slip:

• Say no to what can wait.
• Shut down what isn’t working.
• Delegate what doesn’t need you.
• Make memories with your spouse and kids.

A rested, family-centered you is a better leader for your church and your home. Give your family (and your ministry) that gift.

Now, go make some memories.

Grace and strength,