The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 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 6:30-31)

Mark 6: 30-34  

The disciples have been hard at work; they are excited and want to share their experiences with Jesus. With love, they are invited to move away from the crowds to a quiet place to rest, reflect, and be with Jesus. Jesus knows that the best thing for them now is to rest physically and spiritually. In many of the Gospel stories, we see Jesus moving away from crowds and noise to a quiet place where he prays and gets spiritual rest.

Our world seems to be getting busier. We are working harder, and time seems to be passing faster. The conveniences of daily life create more time for busyness and work and less time for rest. 

We are not good at taking time to rest. Many people complain about lack of sleep and are facing burnout. All this busyness, exhaustion, and lack of rest affect our physical health.

What about spiritual rest? How often do we take time to rest and restore our souls? What are the effects of not taking enough time to pray, worship, or read scripture? Surely, our souls are affected by this, and we become self-focused and take our eyes off God. Jesus invites us to spiritual rest so that we can continue to proclaim the Gospel and serve God’s people. 

In what ways can you rest both physically and spiritually today?

Reflections by Gillian Hugo

Dearest Jesus,
Thank you for extending your compassionate love to us and inviting us to come away from the busyness of our lives into quiet spaces to rest and be with you. Thank you for always listening to our prayers and inviting us to share our hopes, dreams, and concerns with you.
Amen.

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