Solitude

Mark 6:30-31

New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)

³⁰ The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. ³¹ 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.”

(http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%206:30-31&version=NIV1984)

The disciples had just returned from their trip where they had depended on God for everything.  They had gone out with nothing, as Christ had instructed, they preached repentance, drove out demons and healed the sick.  Now they are back and ready to share with Jesus but there are crowds around them.  Also just prior to this passage we find that Jesus has just learned of the beheading of John the Baptist, it was time for some solitude for them all.

As I read this passage today I was drawn to the quote of Jesus, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”  I have to wonder if that solitude was on the boat because when they got to the other side, the crowds were there waiting for them.  Sometimes we can get so busy with life or get so wrapped up in what we have been doing for Him that we forget to spend time with Him.  When we find that we are tired and stressed from life, or that people begin to become a burden rather than a joy, it is time to step back and have some alone time with Him.  It may only be a short boat ride to the other side but we need to make sure that we have some time with Him.  Some people may think that it is the mountains that we should retreat to, or possibly a church camp but sometimes it is in the most familiar place we know, as it was for the disciples. 

Take note, when they got to the other side and the crowds were waiting for Jesus, He didn’t tell the crowds to go away or roll His eyes at them, He didn’t get frustrated or try to escape from them, He rather, had compassion on them.  As should we, when others come needing to know Jesus and we are tired or downcast, we need to have compassion on them and God will bless them as well as us.  We do need to always remember though to have that time of solitude with Him, so that when the busyness of life comes our way and people need to be spiritually fed, we have something to share with them and the energy to do so.  We should never try to do anything by our own strength or power but through the power of the Holy Spirit and we must never lose sight that it is through Him that we have the privilege to become Children of God.

As you seek Him, you must find solitude with Him but don’t forget there is work to be done and He has called us to do it.

Seeking Him with all my heart,

Sheila