Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake, and a large crowd from Galilee followed. When they heard all he was doing, many people came to him from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, and the regions across the Jordan and around Tyre and Sidon. Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him, to keep the people from crowding him. For he had healed many, so that those with diseases were pushing forward to touch him. Whenever the evil spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” But he gave them strict orders not to tell who he was. Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him.
Dan Helix, Senior Pastor
Awakenings Christian Church (Concord)
Ever feel like getting away? Ever wish you just had some peace and solitude? Ever just wanted to be alone or at least only with those you knew and trusted? Maybe this day as you read these things you need to have some justification so you don’t feel guilty for getting away and leaving the “crowd” behind. So, now you know, it is OK, biblical, even necessary.
Even Jesus, the incarnate Son of God, had this need in the human part of Him. How come I feel like I am so much better than Jesus and I can’t take the time to refresh myself? Jesus’ example for me here is to take the time because if I am out of energy, I am no good for anyone, including myself or those I love and serve.
Remember, the guilt you may be feeling about taking some time out of your life for rest may be the enemy trying to help you burn yourself out. God just might be saying to you, “Today, let Me refresh you, but you must be in a place where you and I (God) can relax together. Take a day, take two days, maybe even take a week – but take something. Without TAKING the time to refresh, you have nothing to GIVE to Me – or others.”
Dear God, please make the way clear for me to take the time to refresh myself, refresh my relationship with you and replenish the energy I need to work in Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name – Amen.