Mark 6:31 – [Jesus] said to them, "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while." (NRSV)

As a bit of an "over-achiever", I have a tendency to cram my schedule too full. All it takes for me to go into "overload" mode is for there to be a funeral during an already busy schedule. Then when everything is over and done, I really need to take a break. I need to "come away and rest a while".

That's when my dog and I go down to Mundy Pond for a walk. As he investigates the smells, I feel the wind in my face, deeply inhale the fresh air, and gaze at the swans swimming placidly upon the choppy pond waters. As my spirit is rested, so is my body re-invigorated for the tasks ahead.

Even Jesus and the disciples needed to rest from their taxing ministry among the people of ancient Judea and Galilee. Quite often, Jesus would encourage them, "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while." He did this so that they would be rejuvenated and able to return refreshed. Thus when they resumed their appointed tasks, they were able to perform them with relish.

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, when we are truly weary, find us, and send us Your Spirit that we might find our rest in You. Amen.

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About the author:

Cassandra Wessel <casswessel4319@gmail.com>
Tionesta, Pennsylvania, USA
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