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.” So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.

Devotion based on Mark 6:30-32

You don’t have to look hard to find the benefits of rest. Psychologists and physicians agree that rest is vital for overall well-being. You don’t need an expert to tell you that. You have experienced it yourself. You know the difference a full night of sleep can make. When you’re trying to solve a problem, it can be beneficial to step away from the issue, take a rest, and come back refreshed. Even a five-minute break can make a big difference.

Because rest is so important, it’s not surprising to see Jesus have compassion for those who need physical rest. Jesus’ disciples are called apostles because he sent them out with a message on a mission. They had just returned from that work and needed rest. Jesus looked at them with compassion. He suggested they come with him to a quiet place to rest and recuperate.

Jesus cared about every aspect of the disciples’ lives. When they needed rest, Jesus looked for a way to provide it. Jesus cares about every aspect of your life. He sees you, all of you, body and soul together. He cares for the needs of the soul as well as the body. Jesus knows that you have limits. Jesus has not called you to work endlessly without rest.

Working without an end drains you. It leaves you empty. It gives no opportunity for prayer, meditation, and reflection. It wears you out. From the very beginning, God has given you an example of rest when God rested on the seventh day of creation.

Find your rest in Jesus, the one who cares about all of you. Jesus, who rested from his work of saving you on the day between Good Friday and Easter in a tomb, welcomes you to rest in him.

Prayer: