“The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, ‘Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.’ For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.” Mark 6:30-34
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Matthew 5:6
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-31
“I have given them your word… I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world.” John 17:14-18
The Lord Jesus’s short public ministry was efficient and purposeful, marked by long days and many miles. Crowds, conversations, and challenges met Him at every turn. He had no place to lay His head, yet regularly found solace and strength in His Heavenly Father, sufficient for the moments thereof. He also taught and demonstrated for His followers how to handle pressure with prayer and wise planning. Peace should and could be carried into every situation, because His presence was a constant they could trust. (Deuteronomy 33:25; Matthew 8:20; Mark 6:35-46,48-51)
The Lord knows us inside out and all around, and understands our every bite and press of tension, burden, and time crunch. He invites us to find rest and sustenance in Him and His word through regular time in quiet and rest in His promises. He meets us in the turning world with physical stamina, spiritual insight, supernatural nourishment, and encouragement when we look to Him. His compassion and love embrace every restless soul.
What present demands and needs swirl about me, constantly threatening to upset my peace or topple my resolve? Do I feel alone, put-upon, or resentful in my responsibilities, stressed by the demands I must answer? What carelessness, time-wasters, and sloth have I allowed to rob necessary time and attention with my Lord?
How am I aligning daily priorities with the Lord’s ready supply? Where do I seek counsel for handling pressure? What changes can I make to habit and schedule to ensure the desolate place and easy yoke?
What frenzy will I bring Jesus today? He knows and will see me through every crush and crowd. By prayer and with thanksgiving, will I turn over my cares and conundrums to His wisdom, care, and keeping? (Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Peter 5:7)
Lord, help me trust You with all my fuss and frenzy so Your peace abides, Your will is furthered, and Your glory seen.
As the rain and snow 