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 6:31-32 NIV
Read Mark 6:30-46
Upon reading this verse, we may be tempted to think it’s about finding a place to escape from the world's craziness. But to do so would be taking it out of context. Upon the disciple's return with the horrific news of Jesus’ cousin John’s beheading, Jesus looks for a quiet place but doesn’t find it. Instead, He is pursued by the crowd, taking compassion on them and teaching them. Only after a long day of performing the miracle of feeding the five thousand with five loaves and two fish does Jesus find a place of peace to pray.
If this Bible verse means more than just looking for a quiet place to rest, what is its more profound lesson? It tells us that our primary job—helping and caring for others—should come before our own need to rest. Even when we’re tired, we should keep caring for people, listening, and sharing Jesus Christ’s life-transforming message of hope. It also reminds us that finding time to pray and connect with God is essential, no matter how busy we are.
What are some practical ways we can put this message into practice?
Perform at least one act of kindness daily, whether helping a neighbor, volunteering, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need.
Join or organize community events that serve others, such as food drives, clean-up projects, or support groups.
Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on how we can prioritize the needs of others in our personal and professional lives.
Most importantly, dedicate a specific time each day to prayer, seeking guidance on how to be more compassionate and service-oriented.
Remain in a continual attitude of prayer, listening to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Let us pray.
Heavenly Father,
In the stillness of this moment, we seek Your presence, not as an escape from the tumult of the world but as a refuge where we can gather strength to face the challenges before us. We acknowledge, Lord, that the path You walked was not one of constant solitude but one where You embraced the clamor of the needy and the cries of the suffering.
Grant us the grace to teach, heal, feed, and love—not from our own reserves but from the bounty of Your infinite goodness. May we be vessels of Your miraculous provision, breaking our loaves and fishes, however meager, to share with the multitudes.
And when the day wanes and our work is done, lead us to that sacred space of solitude where we can converse with You. In the quiet, let us draw from the well of Your eternal wisdom and peace.
We ask this not for our own comfort but that we might be better equipped to carry forth the life-transforming message of hope found in Jesus Christ. For it is in giving that we receive, in listening that we understand, and in praying that we are transformed. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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