Rest
Jesus sends the twelve disciples out to minister without Him (Mark 6:7-13) to put into practice what they’ve been learning being with Him. When the disciples had returned from teaching, healing and delivering the people, they were exhausted. In their sharing of the events, there was so much activity, they didn’t even have time to eat. Jesus tells them, “Come with Me by yourself to a quiet place and get some rest” (v 31). They get in a boat and head to a solitary place. Notice Jesus was very specific. He didn’t say “Go away—take some time off, I’ll see you on the other side in a few days.” He wasn’t offering options. He said, “Come with Me.” It was a now invitation.
The narrative doesn’t say it, but can you almost imagine the boat ride over. They, being weary and already gave their report to Jesus: there was no joking, no exclaiming of dustless sandals (see v11 below) and no telling the ever so energetic Peter to sit down. Just quiet and the lapping of the water on the boat—and Jesus.
Presence.
Perhaps YOU are exhausted, exhausted from the stuff. Worn out from routine, serving and loving. Rest. Follow this example: “Come with Me by yourself to a quiet place and get some rest.”
By the way, we can’t stop there. That solitary place? Before they even get to shore, thousands of folks show up. Jesus having compassion, teaches the crowd. As it gets late, and folks are hungry, He instructs the disciples to gather the MANY in an organized manner. After praying, He takes what little food they found and hands the broken bread and fish to the disciples to feed the multitude.
Rest, getting ready for the next BIG thing. Take the invitation of quiet and Presence when you can!
For our growth and His glory.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
V11 “And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them.” (Part of Jesus’ instruction when sending the disciples out).
* Photo credit: Horacio Cardozo
Inspired Fountain 