In Mark 6:31 Jesus recognizes that His disciples have "hit the wall" and are exhausted from their many encounters of ministry with thousands of needy people.
With profound sensitivity He says "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." (Mark 6:31b) This single verse (and it's very profound application) has somehow been a lifeline to me throughout the years of my ministry.
We see here that Jesus recognizes that we are limited in our capacity to care for the needs of others and we must from time to time
- get away
- with Him
- to a quiet place
- and get some rest
This seems like a simple formula but one that is ignored by so many Christian leaders who end up either burning out or becoming very disillusioned.
I'm leaving one of those times away just now. It's been a beautiful 9 days of rest and refreshment without any sense of "needing to produce" or trying to fulfill the expectations of others.
Most important, it reminds me that my Christian walk is mainly about my relationship with Jesus and my conversations with Him have been uplifting and convicting, without ever being condemning.
I return home to partner alongside my incredible friends and partners in ministry, but I do so now with a "full tank", ready to do my best to help continue to spread the gospel and fulfill the vision and mission the Lord's given us.
If you have not made time for this in your life (and it can be for as little as a day or as long as you need!), I can't imagine a fulfilling life without it!
Looking forward to going home!
Blessings,
Dr. Jay
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