One day Jesus sent his disciples on a short-term mission trip in which they were to preach the gospel, cast out demons, and heal the sick.
When they returned, they enthusiastically told Jesus all that had happened on their journey.
I can imagine how it was; you typically come back from such events on cloud nine, more exhilarated than ever.
So, what did Jesus say to them?
He didn’t say, “Not bad for a first try. Now let’s take things up a notch. Get back out there and build on your momentum.”
Instead, he said, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31)
TAKING TIME TO BE STILL
You can’t live your life each day in high gear, pedal to the medal, maxed out on every gauge.
You can’t do it, but it doesn’t stop us from trying.
It’s bad enough when we do this to ourselves, but we have a tendency to do it to our kids, as well. We keep them engaged in a whirlwind of activity, coming and going. It never ends.
Leaders often have a habit of doing the same with the ones they lead.
This is counter-productive. The busier we keep ourselves over the long haul, the less effective, and the less content, we become.
Life works best when you allow yourself some downtime. I’m not suggesting that you abandon the idea of hard work or long hours, because they’re not only necessary, they’re fulfilling. Just make sure, in the midst of your meaningful day-to-day activity, you don’t neglect the quiet place, or the One who is calling you to meet him there.
© 2019/2025 Today’s Memo was taken from Steve’s book It’s All in the Dailies.
