| Leviticus 14:1-57; Psalm 40:1-10; Mark 6:30-56; Proverbs 10:11-12
“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.” Mark 6:30-31
Welcome to the ministry! Ha, ha. Anyway, anyone who has been in ministry, or even business, or family life, for a while understands the needs never go away. Jesus told His posse that it was time to go somewhere quiet so they could rest and refresh. Now we all know that when they got to where they were going, the people had already beat them there. The brief reprieve they got was in the boat on the trip over. Jesus was moved with compassion and told his guys, ‘Hey y’all, (because we all know Jesus was southern) we gotta feed these people and take care of them. Jesus launched into the lesson on blessing what you have in your hands and trusting God to multiply it and make it enough. When the crisis was averted and the needs were met, Jesus sent the boys back on the boat and He departed for the hills to pray.
Jesus understood the need for rest and receiving a download from the Father. He also knew His purpose was to point people in the right direction through teaching, healing and feeding, and He never failed to do those things. I feel in this passage He is acknowledging the need to get away, while also recognizing the pressing needs of ministry that must be met. Sometimes we have to get that down time “on the boat ride over.” Sometimes we just have enough energy left to “climb a hill and pray” like Jesus. Asking God to strengthen you for your journey and to help you endure the season where you have a lot pulling on you. And asking Him to give you the wisdom to get away for a while when the opportunity is right. You got this, just say – I can do ALL things through Christ which strengthens me.
Prayer: Lord, sometimes it feels like too much. I’m asking You to lead and guide me. Help me to say no without guilt when I am absolutely worn down and need some time to refresh. Also, help me to persevere when the needs are great and it is essential to stay in the thick of the battle. Just help me to be discerning Father, I love and appreciate You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen. |
