How often do you rest? Do you take time to not just get enough rest to continue one more day, but a renewing rest that energizes you for weeks? Have you ever taken a sabbatical? Do you plan to take a sabbatical? Are your vacations restful or hectic?
We know getting the proper rest is important. We may be good at getting seven or eight hours sleep each night. We may even set aside time during the day to rest. Perhaps we read a devotional and pray first thing in the morning. Perhaps we do that in the evening.
In a culture that is constantly on the go, getting rest can be a challenge. We think we must be on the go all the time, just like we think everyone else is. Yet, everyone else may not be as on the go as we think. Sure, they go places and do things. We all do. And we talk about it. But think for just a moment. All those people who talk about going all the time are likely the same people that talk about constantly being tired.
We need rest. We need time away from the hustle and bustle. We need a sabbatical, even if only a few days. We need to completely decompress and renew our energy level. Jesus knew this, too. That is why He told His disciples to go to a deserted place with Him. He knew they needed a break from the crowds. He knew they needed a deeper rest than merely sleeping that night.
We can learn a lesson from Jesus’ actions. He directed His disciples to get away from all the activity and get a deeper level of rest. We can get away from the activity, too. We can achieve a deeper level of rest. When we do, we will find that our body and mind is reenergized, providing us more focus for the tasks we must complete.
I pray we all seek a deeper rest. I pray we take time to get away from the hustle and bustle. I pray each one of us will find a quiet place to be rejuvenated and reenergized. Seek a deeper rest. Get away from the hustle and bustle. Be rejuvenated. Be reenergized. Be renewed.
Mark 6:30-31 The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
Marty Pressey 