Mark says it in this way; "Then Jesus said, 'Lets go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.' He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and His Apostles didn't even have time to eat. So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone." (6:31-32).
They went to a quiet place. A place where they could be alone (in solitude). We are finite beings in need of rest. Rest is defined as "cease working in order to relax, to refresh one self and recover your strength. Too often we seem to miss the value of rest. "Be still, my soul and know that I am God." Rest is vital for finishing the race.
This blog is for all of the many wonderful people who serve Jesus in our community and are so often very, very busy!
We need reminded that we are LOVED even when we are not being busy about His work and service. We are loved because He finds us valuable for just who we are...who He created us to be.
We are WELCOMED by God whether we are a child, a prodigal or an overworked stressed out adult. :) God is good at 'creating space for us to feel seen and heard and loved...a safe zone, a place of warmth and nourishment." A place of welcoming.
We need to CHOOSE to enjoy being welcomed by God...being GLADLY received by the One who loves us completely and irrevocably.
For me solitude is like a delightful oasis where being still and 'present' in the moment helps with soaking in His presence. Knowing yourself and your needs is important. What fills your soul?
"A person who gains sense loves himself. One who guards understanding finds something good." (Proverbs 19:8). Pootling works for some of us...meandering quietly through days of solitude looking towards our God.
"So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun." Ecc. 8:15 Fun brings rest...rest helps with re creation/renewal.
So as we are all working hard for the Kingdom, let us remember to also have fun and rest. And know we are gladly welcomed in His presence. "Let my soul be at rest again, for the Lord has been good to me." (Psalm 116:7).
Now...go and pootle.
Be Blessed~~
LaCheri