Quiet Devotions is a daily devotion based on one of the readings from the Daily Lectionary (as it appears in the back of Evangelical Lutheran Worship, Augsburg Fortress, 2006). All biblical quotes are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) unless otherwise noted. May these devotions help bring you in closer relationship with the Triune God.

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Year B, Easter 4, Saturday


Inspired by Mark 6:30-34

“[Jesus] said to them, ‘Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.’  For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.”  Mark 6:31

At times it seems as though the Lord’s work will never end.  There are always more relationships to tend, more people to help, more preparations to be made.  Sometimes we get so tired, but how can we justify taking a break from our service if those we are trying to help don’t get a break from their suffering?

Serving the Lord is not only about the work we do for him.  Yes, we are called to ease the suffering of our fellow human beings, but we are also called to be comforted and refreshed ourselves.  We are called to be workers in and for the kingdom of God, but in the end it is God who saves the world and those who are in it, not us.  Taking a rest from our labors not only refreshes and strengthens us to do more work later, but it also reminds us that God works in many and various ways, and that his work will continue even while we go away to a deserted place and rest a while.

Let us pray.  God of comfort, you know the limits of our endurance.  Help us to recognize our own limits and needs, that we may be healthier and stronger laborers for your kingdom.  Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

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