Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.
Mark 6:30-32
Doesn't that sound inviting!! And yet, how many of us follow Jesus' advice? It seems that we all move too fast, are constantly busy, and even feel guilty when we're not doing something. And yet, no one is busier than Jesus and his apostles were! In these passages, the apostles had just returned from their ministry tour, and I imagine they were very excited to tell Jesus all about it. We are told in verse 31 that because so many people were coming and going they did not even have a chance to eat.
Jesus' first response as they reported their achievements was to take them away to rest.
He was reminding them that even though they were doing important work, God did not want them to work 24/7. I believe that Jesus is telling us through this passage that we need rest, we need solitude, we need times of refreshment, relaxation and renewal. Times alone so we can hear God speaking to us, and times with our loved ones to enjoy each other. During this Lenten season, can you think of just one way that you can find some rest for your body, mind, and soul. One way you can step back from your own personal "rat race" to rest and recharge your spiritual batteries. After all, even God rested on the seventh day!
Nancy Horkan
