Sunday July 21, 2024
And Jesus said to the disciples,
“Come away by yourself to a desolate place and rest a while”
Mark 6:29
Jesus said these words to his disciples during a time of extreme busyness in ministry. They had just returned from their first mission trip as Jesus sent them out two by two into the neighboring regions to proclaim the gospel, heal the sick and cast our demons. It was an exciting time as the Lord blessed their efforts and used them in ways they perhaps had never imagined. And yet, as great as the blessings were, they were still just men. And men tire out. No matter how strong we think we are, there is a limit to our physical, emotional and spiritual ability (something I am more and more aware of as I get older).
Knowing this, as soon as they returned Jesus commanded them to come aside and rest a while. I’ve always found it interesting that Jesus commands them to rest (the Greek is an imperative). He doesn’t suggest it. He commands it. He knew there was a limit to their strength so that, no matter how sincere their service, the time would come when they needed to step back and get alone with Him in order to be refreshed by His gracious presence.
I am so very grateful that years ago, before we even had elders, the deacons (I’m looking at you Kurt Boehm) began to require me to take a yearly retreat for the purpose of resting from my usual schedule of ministry in order to spend time alone with the Lord in prayer and planning. I am convinced that was from the Lord and is one of the reasons God has graciously allowed me to continue to serve here at Rockport these past thirty-three years. It’s hard to put into words, but these yearly retreats (and occasional longer sabbaticals) allow me to refresh my heart and mind upon the Lord whom I need ever bit as much as those I am privileged to serve. So thank you, Rockport, for allowing me to get away this past week and spend much needed time being refreshed in the Lord’s presence.
I am grateful to Him and to all of you for this gracious gift.
Pastor S Scott Lee
