Mark 6: 30-32 (NLT)
The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat. So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone.
Admit it. Many of us get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life we often forget to rest. Not sleep, but rest. Our society is consumed by busy-bodies. We have to go to work, church, school, the grocery store, the mall, out of town, this and that practice, watch the game or the latest reality show, help so and so, pray, read the Bible, complete the daily LifeTogether devotional, get gas, hit the bank, hang with the guys or girls, find a babysitter, take the kids to the park, and so on. Again, all good things as long as you stay balanced with rest. Jesus’ example in the Gospels is clear - there is great wisdom and value in pulling away from time to time to find rest. Not only for your bod… But your soul as well.
As we witness with the disciples (and many of us can attest to from experience), serving God can be hard, often hectic, work. Our lives mirror verse 31, “There was constant coming and going.” (The Message) Our lives, both in and out of Refuge, are as much. And not just for the leaders of the various ministries. Stop to think about the last time you sat quietly with God, distanced from the appeals of others and the pressures of the world. Without feeling guilty, we should carve out such beneficial time to withdraw (even if it's in a deer stand) and pray. And if you’re allowed to do so, return the favor for someone else. Watch the kids for your spouse or knock out errands for a friend so that they may enjoy such personal time with the Savior as well. Withdrawing into brief times of isolation is the mark of a mature believer. Because we don’t do anyone good when we burn ourselves out.
Listen as Jesus says, “Come to me and I will give you rest.”
