Devotion: When we talk about rest, perhaps you find yourself thinking that rest sounds nice and you will do it “when you have time.” Spoiler alert: you likely aren’t going to stumble upon the time to rest. You are going to have to create some intentional space in order to do so. Not convinced that resting is even that necessary?
Let’s look at a passage from Mark where Jesus addresses the apostles. “The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 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’” (Mark 6:30-31).
Jesus told His apostles to rest. After the apostles had been on a mission (Mark 6:7-13), calling people to repent, driving out demons, and healing the sick, they share about their experiences with Jesus. Hearing all that they had done and experiencing the constant coming and going of people, Jesus instructs them to go to a quiet place and get some rest.
We see again the balance of work being good and rest being good. The work that the Jesus called His apostles? It was indeed good work. But that does not mean that they could sustain that pace of work 24/7. So, Jesus calls them to rest. And the rest that they are called? Also good. True rest allows God to renew us and strengthen us, so that we are able to go back to the good work He has called us to. Rest is necessary, and we can create the time to lean back in our Father’s arms and be refreshed.
Reflect:
- Do you find yourself saying you will rest “when you find time?”
- How can you create space in your life to rest and spend time with your Heavenly Father?
