There is a natural order to life. We have night and day; we have summer, spring, winter, fall; we have six days of work, and one day of rest. There is a natural rhythm to ministry and Sabbath. Jesus recognized this. We read in Mark 6:31 "He said to [the disciples], "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat."Jesus was very involved in the lives of people. He healed, taught, and ministered to multitudes of people. However, he recognized the importance of rest and solitude. He regularly withdrew to deserted places to pray. This energized him for the work that awaited his return. He modeled this rhythm and called the disciples to it as well.
This summer I am beginning a time of rest and renewal. I am withdrawing from day to day ministry in order to spend time in the presence of the Lord. I am looking forward to this season of sabbath and all that it will do for my spiritual, mental, and physical health. It will renew and refresh me for when I return to pick up the mantle of ministry once again.
I encourage everyone to make time for rest. Develop a rhythm of ministry and Sabbath. Withdraw regularly from the world in order to renew in the presence of the Lord. This is one way that we can truly be followers of Jesus.
Grace and peace to you all.
Pastor Lee
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