Rest

Good Morning,

Mark 6:31 (NIV)
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."

This verse struck me today because I know that there are many who read these words and can relate to the "busy-ness" that was happening around Jesus and the disciples at that time. Way too often we get caught up in doing too many things and being involved in too many works and trying to be all things to everyone around us all the time.

I don't know who needs to think about this or how many of us are just too busy and not getting enough rest. But I do know that there are some who really have to take a step back and see what's going on in their lives. Then, decisions need to be made about what is really necessary and what is just too much.

You see, we don't but enough emphasis on the need for rest. But Jesus did have that basic understanding that a person can really only be effective when that person doesn't take on too much and gets enough rest and relaxation in his or her life. People can be truly efficient and successful in what they are attempting to do only when they are getting enough rest and taking time away from their "busy, busy, busy...doing it, doing it doing it" lives. It may not seem important and I know that there are those of us who feel they don't need to get decent rest from their pursuits, but I assure you these good hearted people are wrong in that.

Jesus knew and then told the disciples (and us, as well!) the value of rest and getting away from all of the activity going on. We ought to know and understand that concept, as well.

If we want to be truly effective in getting the work of God's kingdom done, then we need to be sure we're getting enough rest while doing that work. Recharging the batteries, so to speak, is well worth the time. For when we are well rested and full charged, that's when we will bear much fruit and be successful in those kingdom works we do.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David