08-04-20

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
August 4, 2020
Scripture: Mark 6:30-32
The apostles returned to Jesus and told him everything they had done and taught. Many people were coming and going, so there was no time to eat. He said to the apostles, “Come by yourselves to a secluded place and rest for a while.” They departed in a boat by themselves for a deserted place.

Thought for the Day: Jesus, the man who cared about the needs of others, also recognized the need for self-care. In the story, after the disciples returned from a mission, Jesus was conscious of their need for rest. Of course, after setting out to a deserted place, the crowds soon followed. What’s the old saying, “No rest for the weary,” and that’s the way it appears for the twelve in this story. Just because Jesus was unsuccessful in this moment doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. I appreciate Anne Lamott who wrote, “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” Now some of you might be thinking, “Because of this pandemic, I feel unplugged and disconnected all the time.” Yet what I am finding is that many are alone and detached from their usual activities, but that is not the same as self-care. It might be a bit more challenging right now, especially for extroverts, to do what is healthy and life-giving. That doesn’t mean we should put it off, for if Jesus felt it was important, so should we.

Prayer: Provide me with some respite, O Lord who declared the Sabbath day, and might it begin with some time set aside with you. Help me to determine what feeds my spirit and nourishes my life. Even if it is just a few hours of some self-indulgence, you have shown how rest is necessary for the faithful. Amen.

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