How can we prioritize rest amidst "many people coming and going" today? Theme verse: Mark 6:31 “Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have time to eat, He said to them, ‘Come with Me privately to a solitary place, and let us rest for a while.’” Setting the scene • The Twelve had just returned from an intense season of ministry (Mark 6:7-30). • Crowds pressed in so relentlessly that basic needs—like eating—were neglected. • Jesus did not scold the crowds, yet He lovingly protected His disciples by calling them away. • The invitation combined two elements: “Come with Me” (relationship) and “rest… for a while” (rhythm). Lessons for today • Rest is rooted in God’s created order (Genesis 2:2-3); ignoring it wars against His design. • The Sabbath principle is still wisdom for human flourishing (Exodus 20:8-11; Mark 2:27). • Rest is relational before it is recreational—Jesus Himself is the destination (Matthew 11:28-30). • Withdrawing is not selfish; it is strategic stewardship that equips us to serve again (Luke 5:16). • Over-extension can dull spiritual perception and physical health (1 Kings 19:4-8; Philippians 2:27-30). Practical ways to prioritize rest • Schedule it: – Block a weekly day of undistracted worship and refreshment. – Reserve brief “solitude pockets” each day—commute, lunch break, early morning. • Guard physical rhythms: – Aim for consistent sleep (Psalm 127:2). – Protect unhurried meals; Jesus noted their lack of time to eat. • Create margin: – Leave white space in the calendar for interruptions God sends. – Say no to some good opportunities so you can say yes to God’s best (Ephesians 5:15-17). • Establish tech boundaries: – Silence devices during devotional time. – Set “screen-sabbaths” to rest eyes and mind. • Engage restorative activities: – Scripture meditation and prayerful listening (Psalm 23:2-3). – Leisure that re-creates: a walk, music, fellowship with loved ones. • Trust God’s provision: – Delegating and resting express faith that the Lord sustains the work (Psalm 127:1; Mark 6:42-43). Encouragement in Christ Jesus models and mandates rhythms of withdrawal and return. As we accept His personal invitation—“Come with Me”—our souls find the quiet pasture they crave, even while the world keeps “coming and going.” May we embrace His pattern of purposeful rest so that our service overflows from renewed strength and unhurried communion with Him. |
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