Mark 1:35-39 (MSG)
While it was still night, way before dawn, he got up and went out to a secluded spot and prayed. Simon and those with him went looking for him. They found him and said, "Everybody's looking for you." Jesus said, "Let's go to the rest of the villages so I can preach there also. This is why I've come." He went to their meeting places all through Galilee, preaching and throwing out the demons.
In our fast paced society, people must be doing something constantly. Chattering on a cell phone. Updating their Facebook status. Surfing the internet. Shopping. Church. Hanging out with friends. Going to the movies. Going out to eat. Work. Kids. This ministry. That ministry…You get the picture.
While there is nothing inherently wrong with these things (they’re actually good), the problem arises when we get so busy with life and doing things for God, we neglect spending time with God. How is that possible you might ask? Think about the last time you consistently spent time alone with God. Not in corporate worship, but in intimate one-on-one time in relationship. My hope is you answered, “At least the last six days.” If not, take an a moment and reread the Scripture again. Focus on what Jesus did.
Despite being the Savior of the world and the Son of God, Jesus invested relationship-building time with God. He arose in the wee hours of morning, set off for a solitary place, and communicated with God. He shared his thoughts, his praises, his struggles. He gave, and received love. He removed his focus from the clammering crowds and noisy world and placed it on the Father. If Jesus found it worthwhile to pull back sometimes just to be alone with God, should we not also? How much more do we need to seek the face and love of God to make it through our days. When we follow his example, we will find a fulfilling relationship that will grant us the strength to get up and continue pressing forward. And not just pressing forward, but doing so with conviction and hope. You have begun such a journey six days ago (maybe longer than that).
Will you choose to continue?
