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

The Lord’s compassion is so evident here, He must have been physically exhausted Himself. Oh the love that Christ has for mankind, we see it over and over again throughout Scripture!

We live in a very busy world, don’t we. If we are not very careful, we can push our time with God right out of our day by being so wrapped up in the things of this life. God understands that we have to work, have family time, serve in our church…etc. But these things should never be placed above time spent with God in His Word and in prayer. In fact, my day goes much better when I have had my quiet time with God, even if it is just a verse or two to think and meditate on. We can talk to God anytime, He loves to hear from His children and to know that we are thinking of Him and trusting Him through the course of our day.

Let’s make these daily stops in God’s Word more than quick e-mail or text viewing; let’s let it be a time to withdraw with the Savior and rest. Jesus still beckons us: “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

Holy and gentle Shepherd, the one who stills my soul, thank you for your constant care and loving faithfulness. Please touch my heart as I try to be more disciplined in my rest times with you. Please keep my soul, but even more, please restore my soul as I withdraw to spend time with your Son and my Savior Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.

Holy Father, I need more talks with Jesus each and every day. When I focus on Him it gives me strength to endure the challenges ahead each day as He walks with me. This I pray in Jesus’ name,  Amen.

And it’s ok to start your day with a smile. Enjoy this version of this song.