“After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.” — John 6: 14-15
Jesus withdrew by Himself.
He needed time to rest and refresh.
He needed time to reconnect with God and review His purpose.
We all need time to rest and refresh. We need time to reflect on our own purpose, to reconnect with God, to review our plans and determine what comes next. Whether we are stressed or only weary, Like Jesus, we need to withdraw by ourselves.
In the first chapter of Genesis, even God rested on the seventh day.
Like many of us, there were times in my life when I worked 60 hours a week; when you include family and personal projects, it adds up to more than 80 hours of effort each week.
We need to take time to rest, reflect and refresh.
Even though I am retired, I find that sometimes I get involved in a project and work harder than I should. The Veterans Affairs physical therapist told me that a person of my age (mid-70s) should take a break every hour when doing physical effort. When I get rolling, it can be difficult to slow down, but then my body complains.
I have the opportunity to take a nap, but most often I cannot get to sleep. My mind keeps thinking about the projects that I am working on.
Rest and reflect.
I suppose that even though I did not sleep, the 5- or 15-minute break allows the Spirit time to guide my purposes.
I challenge each of you to take time, take time to rest and refresh. Allow yourself to reflect on what is important, and what to do next. In your mind recite a favorite Bible verse; I use the 23rd Psalm when I cannot sleep.
Bob Beck is the former layleader for Ebbert Methodist Church and a faith columnist for The Chronicle.
