Create a peaceful space to pause, and allow yourself to feel God’s presence alongside you, as near to you as your own breath. In following the reflection below, as a church we will draw closer to God and to one another as we grow in faith and deepen our sense of belonging to God.
Mark 6:31-32 ‘Jesus Blesses with Rest’
30 The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 He 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. 32 And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves.
You will recognise that these are the words Jesus spoke to his disciples just before the feeding of the five thousand, because they were tired and weary and needed to rest, but as with so many pieces of scripture Jesus’s words can take on a very personal meaning and speak directly to us.
‘Come with me to a quiet place and rest a while’. What a beautiful invitation, and especially in these disturbing times when people are afraid of the future and the weight of constant negativity abounds in everything we read and everything we hear.
How we sometimes long for a place to rest and put worries and troubles behind us, even for just a few moments. To be at peace, to feel that depth of peace and love that can only come from one source. How privileged we are to have knowledge of such a love and know that all we need to do is ask and he will reach out to us and offer us comfort and protection – protection from the fear that can so often come with uncertainty. And there is so much uncertainty in this world today.
So if you have moments of anxiety or worry, look to Him – the great healer – and remember another beautiful promise “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)
Prayer:
Loving Father thank you for the knowledge of your love:
the love that goes beyond our understanding, but upon which we can depend.We pray that you will keep watch on all your people
and bless and comfort those who are distressed or ill or afraid,
and need to feel secure in the knowledge of that love.We are grateful that you offer us unconditional love,
and although what we offer you in return is inadequate
at least it is offered with sincerity.We also place into your powerful hands those we love and hold dear,
strengthened by the certain knowledge that your love embraces all.This prayer is offered in the loving name of Jesus. Amen.
Image © 2020 Paul Tabraham.
Reflection and Prayer © 2020 Nancy Davis.
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