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30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31 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.” 32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. 33 But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. 53 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and anchored there. 54 As soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus. 55 They ran throughout that whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56 And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed. (Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 NiV Bible)
How many people has your church led to Jesus this past year? How many people have you personally led to Jesus this past year? How many people has your church healed? How many people has your church taught this past year? And, the easiest of the questions, how many people has your church fed? Ouch. Have I gone from preaching to meddling? I ask because in this first verse of this passage, in a impromptu staff meeting, the apostles were excitedly sharing to Jesus "all they had done and taught? Can I add another question? Is there a sense of excitement in your church about all that is happening in it? Is there an excitement in your life about what you are doing for Jesus? As much as I hate to say this, some of the most "exciting" things that most church rejoice or get excited about are making budget, having kids at the Vacation Bible School, having enough people agreeing to be on yet another committee, and the list goes on and on.
In this passage we encounter moments where Jesus and his disciples are continuously engaged in ministry—teaching, healing, and comforting multitudes. Despite their tireless efforts, Jesus recognizes their need for rest. He invites them to withdraw to a quiet place, away from the demands of the crowds, to find solace and renewal. Yes, again sadly, too many churches have discovered rest and enjoy it more than they should. I'm all for rest, but it's not the permanent mode in which we need to be.
Isn’t it striking that Jesus, fully aware of the pressing needs around Him, prioritizes the well-being of His disciples? He understands the importance of rest—not merely physical rest, but the kind that rejuvenates the spirit and restores the soul. In our modern lives, amidst the clamor of responsibilities and the urgency of our daily tasks, Jesus’s invitation resonates deeply: “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” This I strongly agree; those who put their all into reaching the world for Jesus are entitled to find time to renew their spirit, renew their relationship with spouses and children; and maintain the relationship with friends who seek to support and encourage our efforts to make disciples of Jesus Christ.
Yet, as they seek this solitude, the crowds anticipate their destination and arrive before them. Jesus, moved with compassion, sets aside his own need for rest to minister to them. He sees their spiritual hunger and responds with teachings that nourish their souls.
Later, in Gennesaret, the cycle repeats as people recognize Jesus and flock to him, seeking healing and hope. The scene unfolds with remarkable simplicity: those who touch even the edge of his cloak are healed. Jesus’s presence alone brings transformation and restoration. Does our presentation of Jesus share a vision where even the touch of our Lord can bring that which they long for?
PRAYER: Loving God, in the midst of our busyness and the demands of life, teach us to heed Your gentle call to rest in Your presence. Grant us the wisdom to prioritize moments of quiet with You, where our souls can find true rest and renewal. Like Jesus, may we be moved with compassion for those around us, recognizing their needs and responding with love. Equip us to be instruments of Your healing and grace in a world longing for Your touch. In Jesus’s strong name we pray, Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Seek a solitary place where you can rest in God’s presence, allowing Him to refresh your spirit. As you encounter others throughout your day, consider how you can show compassion and extend Christ’s love to them, whether through a kind word, a listening ear, or a helping hand. Let your actions reflect the restorative power of God’s grace in your life.
I love you and I thank God for you!
Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.
