• New Testament Reading: Mark 6:1-44
• Old Testament Passages: Nehemiah 4:16-18, 21-23
• Points to Ponder

“And Get Some Rest”

Tonight as I write this, I am very tired. It has been a very busy first six weeks of the year and the
last two weeks I’ve been way out of schedule mostly due to two out of town trips. I have another
one next week. Also I’ve had the stomach flu for 3 days and my wife sprained her ankle. I could go
on and talk about my responsibilities, deadlines, emotional stresses, etc., but I think you probably
get the picture and can relate. I find Jesus’ words in Mark 6:31 very appealing right now, as I’m sure
the disciples also did.

They had been opposed in Jesus’ hometown, had been sent out to preach and heal and had heard of
John’s imprisonment and execution. They were stressed emotionally, physically and spiritually and
no doubt were in need of rest. Yet, when they arrived at the retreat center, there was no rest for
them, but only more work. Following Jesus’ example they pushed through their fatigue (and no
doubt disappointment) and with Jesus’ encouragement kept on serving.

There is a time to “come...and get some rest”, but it doesn’t always happen when we think we need
it. Sometimes rest is not really what we need, but rather another opportunity to serve.

• Questions to Consider: Our world says “Look out for yourself first”, but Jesus tells and shows
us something very different -- others before self. How willing are you to deny yourself when an
opportunity to serve is placed right in front of you? Why does it take faith to deny self?