I’m only a week or so away from departing for the field, and I have so much to do! I’ve got to pack my life away in a few suitcases, make sure I have all the official documents, and pick which books are the most important to bring (which is a super hard decision for a bookworm like me to make). All while trying to spend time with family and friends, and saying intentional goodbyes. My head is spinning. I’m overwhelmed. I’m busy.
But this is God’s work, right? Aren’t I supposed to be busy?
When questions pop into my mind and I wonder what’s right and wrong and honoring to God, I try to go to Scripture. Sometimes it takes me a while, but that’s where we find the right answers. So, I’m exploring Jesus’ ministry and how he managed his work.
“That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.” Mark 1:32-34
Jesus was busy. Check. But wait…
“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” Mark 1:35
Jesus also got away from the crowds and spent time alone. It says similarly in Luke that Jesus often withdrew to pray. That looks a lot like rest, rejuvenation, and recovery—time spent slowing down in the presence of God.
“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Luke 5:16
If you look at all of Mark chapter 1, Jesus had a full plate. He preached, called his disciples, casted out demons, and healed so many people. But one thing still remains consistent. He recharges. Jesus was 100% God, but also 100% human. He had human limitations, just like us, and needed time away from the crowds to be alone with his Father. He rested and took time to slow down before moving on the next day of work.
Now, I’m not sure anymore that “busy” is the right word to describe Christ’s ministry. Did you know that another word for busy is unavailable? I think Jesus was fully available. He was available to show copassion and care for others in his work and available for God to meet him as he rested. So, I’m asking God to help me be available as I work and rest. I’m asking for his help to slow down and not become so preoccupied by busyness. I want to be fully available for whatever God wants me to do. We can to give our worries and stress and to-do list to him. And in return, he can give us his presence to rest in.