Thursday, September 6, 2018
Mark 6:30-32 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.
SET ASIDE TIME TO REST FROM YOUR LABOR
It was one of the busiest days of Jesus' ministry. Scores of people were bringing loved ones to Him for healing. Many, no doubt, were peppering Him with questions, asking Him for advice, looking to Him for instruction from the Word. So demanding was the crowd, with people clamoring for an audience with the Lord, that He and His disciples found it impossible to schedule in a lunch break. The solution to the dilemma? Jesus invited His disciples to come away with Him to a secluded spot where they would be able to enjoy some downtime. He recognized that working without resting, being busy without taking time off to recharge, one's energy isn't good.
A lesson we learn from this is the importance of setting aside periods of rest in our busy work schedules. Scheduling downtime from the strenuous demands of our jobs allows our bodies and minds to decompress and recoup their energy. It refreshes and revitalizes us for our daily work and for our lives of Christian service to others.
"All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy," the proverb says. It also makes Jack a worn-out boy. So, remember to get your sleep and to include some relaxation time in your schedule. Even Jesus needed it.
Heavenly Father, You give Your children sleep for the refreshing of soul and body. Grant me this gift, I pray; keep me in that perfect peace which You have promised to those whose minds are fixed on You, and give me such a sense of Your presence, that in the hours of silence I may enjoy the blessed assurance of Your love. Use periods of relaxation to recharge my body and mind for serving You in those around me in my circle of life. In Jesus' name. Amen.
