To Everything There is a Season

Jesus said to [his disciples],

"Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while."

For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat."

The passage goes on to say that the disciples didn't get the holiday that Jesus had planned on giving them. A determined, Christ-seeking crowd intruded on their solitude. But isn't it wonderful to note that Jesus does put his stamp of approval on rest and relaxation.

Christ did not want his disciples to be workaholics. No sometimes he calls us to recharge with a little get-a-way.

After returning from their first short term mission trip, Christ's disciples were probably exhausted. After all, even performing miracles could tax one's system.

Now, with spirits soaring high and bodies wearing low, Christ called his laborers to quietness. He wanted them to retreat and refresh themselves.

Certainly part of that respite would involve communing with Christ, for that is the chief part of our refreshment. Indeed this is why he gives us the Sabbath day.

But Christ wanted his disciples to be away and alone. No pagers, cell phones, pastoral visits, or meetings--just pure rejuvenation. This was a time for reflection, meditation, and probably, a lot of sleep.

Christ's divine empathy extends even to the frailty of our bodies. He knows that we are but dust and that we easily become exhausted. He created us to work, but he also calls us to embrace the pleasure of intermittent leisure.

The slothful man indulges in leisure too frequently and for too long. But to neglect a much needed vacation is just as wicked.