A special thanks goes to my author friend, Linda McQuinn Carlblom for this guest post today:

Mark 6:30-46 New Living Translation (NLT)

The recommended reading for today is Mark 6:30-46 when Jesus Feeds Five Thousand. You can read the full story here. I’m focusing on verses 30-32.

30 The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. 31 Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.

32 So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone.

Image courtesy of Photokanok / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Jesus and his disciples had put in a long, busy day. They were tired, maybe even ready to go home. Jesus said, “Let’s go off to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He knew just what they needed and it wasn’t more activity, more teaching, or more ministry opportunities. They needed some peace and quiet time alone with Him.

We all need that, even when we sometimes don’t recognize it. After a long day at school, work, or fun with friends, take Jesus’ advice and get alone with Him and rest. Block out the noise of the world. Turn off your iPod, TV, or computer. Read your Bible or pray for a few minutes and let Him recharge your spirit.  Then you’ll be ready to tackle your next task or greet a new day with fresh energy.