In Mark 6:30-44, we find Jesus and the disciples feeding a large gathering of people. Yet just before this profound moment takes place, they had finished a very busy, tiring day and Jesus suggested to the group that they step away for some rest.

The apostles then rendezvoused with Jesus and reported on all that they had done and taught. Jesus said, “Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat.

So they got in the boat and went off to a remote place by themselves. Someone saw them going and the word got around. From the surrounding towns people went out on foot, running, and got there ahead of them. When Jesus arrived, he saw this huge crowd. At the sight of them, his heart broke—like sheep with no shepherd they were. He went right to work teaching them.

// Mark 6:30-44 MSG

In this circumstance, Jesus knew best and, while the desire for rest was deep, He knew the need to serve was deeper. This happens so often. We have intention to rest yet “life” gets in the way and rest goes on the back burner.

Now, as Believers, we know God provides for our needs (Philippians 4:9) and so, if we must serve – Game on! Let’s do it!

We also cannot run on empty and so, this passage from Mark reveals Jesus acknowledging the need for stepping away and resting. He invites the disciples to “Come away with me.”

Experience //
Let’s take a moment to place ourselves in this story.  Visualize Jesus Christ acknowledging you and then saying, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” (NLT) You agree, and step away (maybe take the boat across the water) from the busy, hectic day of activity that has worn you down.

You and Jesus now sit across the fire pit from each other or you are looking out on the water at the shoreline with Him standing next to you. Actually… next to you! Stay here for a long moment. Remain here as long as you need to. Simply be with Jesus.

What would that moment be like for you? Examine all your senses. How you would take this experience in?

Even just writing this experience has me emotional, leaning in and yearning for it again… and again.

Just being with Jesus can change your day, your perspective… your life!

Remember, Jesus tells us in John 15:9, “Remain in my love.” (See my simple reminder post from yesterday) To do so, we must take moments of rest to still our busy minds, to calm our anxious hearts, and to calibrate to His love.

“May we give God the space to do what He can only accomplish in our stillness.”

– Anna Rendell