Scripture for Today: Mark 6:31 “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 to get some rest.”

I guess it only makes sense that seagulls would need rest stops too! These birds had been flying from the coast to Lake Miramar in San Diego, looking for something to eat. This floating water barrier made for a perfect spot to rest up, face the sun and soak in some rays before continuing their quest.

Today’s verse has Jesus showing love and concern for the well-being of His disciples. They finished their report to Him of all they had just done and taught (verse 30). Jesus must have seen the weariness etched in their faces. Perhaps their posture gave away their tiredness as well. People were coming and going and meeting the needs of others gave the disciples no chance to even eat! Their immediate need was rest, so they went away by themselves with Him to a solitary place (verse 32).

The Lord knows when I need rest. And the kind He offers is timely and meets my needs, whether I recognize them or not! The disciples needed physical rest, but also social rest, away from people. Sometimes the rest He gives me means to retreat from people as well. Rest can mean a quiet place when our senses are overwhelmed with noise. Or His rest can be while I continue working. Yoked with Him and His power, the load can be lighter (Matt. 11:28-29). But the best rest He gives me is that settled peaceful feeling in the depths of my soul.

Thank you Lord, for Your perfect rest.