Mark 6:31 “Then because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he (Jesus) said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

This fast-paced life of ours has coined the phrase, “Time flies when you’re having fun.” But honestly, time seems to fly even on the stinky days! The book of James agrees with me, only with a little more tact. James refers to life as vapor, appearing for a little while, then vanishing. As I write these words, a pot is simmering on my stove, and I find myself mesmerized by the steam rising and vanishing. It seems, every element of our lives is tied to fleeting time, and we are in hot pursuit to accomplish much before our vapor disappears. The result is exhaustion of body and soul.

Jesus was well acquainted with exhaustion. Although His earthly obligations physically and emotionally drained Him, Christ knew a remedy. In Mark 6, we find Jesus empowering the apostles to go out by themselves for the first time. They returned weary but filled with adrenaline. Jesus listened as they reported how THEY had cast out demons and how THEY had healed the sick. But sadly, there was no mention of Jesus, the One who had fueled their power (vs. 7).

In the face of exhaustion, the apostles’ focus had shifted from the power and authority of Jesus to their own power and authority. But, in Mark 6:31, Jesus, the great healer, revealed His prescription for Biblical rest. “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” So, what does His cure tell us?

• “Come” suggest we leave our current location with all its distractions.
• “With me” shows us Biblical rest must include time with Jesus.
• “By yourselves” indicates our need to separate from all other humans so we might stand vulnerable before God.
• “To a quiet place” acknowledges that the noise of this world can keep us from hearing the voice of God. Quietness is a precious gift helping us refocus on the power, truth, and love of our gracious God.
• “And get some rest” which will refuel both body and soul.

It is so easy to fall victim to spiritual exhaustion and be in critical need of Biblical rest. Distractions monopolize our day: spilled milk on the floor, the telemarketer on the phone, and an empty refrigerator, etc. Our Savior can get lost in the shuffle, leading us to depend solely on our own abilities. We, too, can forget by whose authority we thrive. So dear friend, hear His sweet reminder today, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

Father God, help me crave quiet time alone with You. 

Blessings,

Rita Cochrane