Finding Rest at Day’s End

When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed. (Mark 1:32 NAS)

After a hard day’s work, we usually hope to come home to an evening of rest and meaningful time with our family or doing the things we like. The necessity of livelihood and work expectation, however, often leaves us with little time for ourselves. From morning to evening, day after day, we rush to get on with the day, and we rush to complete our tasks and to meet deadlines. By the end of the day, we are left exhausted, stressed and worn out. Yet for some of us, we continue to do things hurriedly even at home, and sometimes even work through the night. Such a minute to minute lifestyle bears consequences and depletes health, even with the young and energetic.

Much like the circumstances we face today, Jesus also experienced the difficult situation of finding time to rest at day’s end. Even after the sun had set, people were still bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed (Mark 1:32). Jesus said, “The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head” (Matthew 8:20; Luke 9:58). Yet, our Lord never let life circumstances dictate His resolution to spend quiet time with God, and frequently urged His disciples to go to a secluded place with Him and get some rest (Luke 5:16; Mark 6:31).

Are we finding ourselves too busy for our own good that even at the end of the day, we are still stressed and worn out? If we are, we need to find time to rest. Spending a few minutes to take a break, relax and rest amid the rush is important if we hope to live our lives to the fullest to enjoy the abundant life God has intended for us (John 10:10). Whether it is in the evenings or at a time that works best for us, let us set aside time to free ourselves from the distraction of this world—the mobile phone, wireless devices, TV and the like—and rest. Like Mary, let us sit at the Lord’s feet to listen to what He has to say rather than keep ourselves busy like Martha (Luke 10:39-42).

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest,” Jesus said. “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29).

Dear Lord, forgive us for the many times we let ourselves become too busy to the point of failing to listen to You. Help us Lord to refocus on You and to know Your will as we resolve to spend meaningful time with You and take time to rest. Grant us renewed strength each day O Lord that we might face our challenges boldly without misgivings or distractions. We desire to live our lives to the fullest Lord and enjoy the abundant life You have intended for us. Thank You, Lord, for giving us rest.