Come Away to a Lonely Place - March 19
Today’s Scripture: Gen. 46:1–7,28–34; 1 Cor. 9:1–15; Mark 6:30–46
In today’s Gospel reading from Mark, the disciples turn to Jesus to share “all that they had done and taught.” The way Mark describes the event, it really sounds like the disciples are quite proud of what they have accomplished. It must have been a really busy season in their newfound ministry of following Jesus. Jesus’ response is “Come away by yourselves to a lonely place, and rest a while.” I don’t know about you, but the invitation to go somewhere lonely is not very appealing. If Jesus has used the words ‘quiet’ or ‘peaceful,’ it would have sounded much more appealing.
Later in the scripture passage, the disciples affirm Jesus’ assessment of where they are to go as they respond, “This is a lonely place, and the hour is now late.” And Jesus responds, “You give them something to eat.” There is a commandment to feed the multitudes when the disciples have finally arrived at the lonely place.
I am not at all excited about going to this lonely place of social distancing and isolation. I’m an extravert. Anne says I have two modes: sleep and go. I think I have spent too much of my life focusing on what I can achieve and accomplish. And accomplishment comes from connecting people and connecting with them. It has only been 5 days of social distancing, but it is already forcing me to refocus my life in many different ways. And now I am wondering if the disciples needed to go to that lonely place in order to be able to feed the multitudes.
The work we are called to do, the work of mission, the work of feeding, serving, breaking bread, and connecting to others will never change. It is our imperative as Christians. The question is how are being prepared and shaped to do that work.
- John+
Questions:
Is loneliness intimidating to you? Why?
What are ways that you can feed the multitudes in this phase of social distancing?
Challenge
Do one thing today that will lead to helping to feed another person. Maybe order lunch at a local restaurant and tip big, buy a gift card to your hair salon or favorite local digs, or shop at a local business.