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“He said to them…”Come by yourselves…and rest a while.’” (Mark 6:30-34)
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People were rushing at the disciples from every angle; thousands needed to be healed, cured, and inspired. And I’m sure the disciples wanted to help them all.
But Jesus teaches his disciples that, if they are not to suffer from burn out, then they must take time away for themselves and pray.
Otherwise, the wellspring of their inner lives will run dry.
In a word, the disciples need to find a balance between service and prayer.
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Balance is something we can all struggle to find.
How often, for example, are we torn between two good things?
Or how often do we feel unbalanced, overworked, dry within?
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The Lord is reminding us today of our need for prayer – and in particular, of silent time with Lord. The Lord already knows our needs and wants; silence is simply a way for him to replenish us.
Prayer is not a “bonus” in this life, something that we should do if – and only if – we can find the time.
Rather, it is the source behind our good works.
Let’s rest with the Lord today. Take ten minutes before the day’s end and sit with the Lord in silence. Allow him to fill your heart with his grace and peace.
Then we’ll be ready to love and serve our neighbor.