Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. (Mark 1:35)
As an introvert, it is important for me to spend time alone recharging. I love to interact with others and spend time learning about those who cross my path, but my hospitality can only go so far before I need a break. Often, we introverts feel guilty about wanting to get away and be alone. Yet, if I fail to recognize my need to recharge, then I become relationally ineffective. The same is true for our spiritual health.
Jesus sets the example of taking time alone with the Father. Several times throughout Scripture we see him going off to pray. In doing this, he accomplishes two things. First, he gives us permission to say we need time alone spiritually. And second, he teaches the importance of maintaining our spiritual health. In order to help those who are spiritually empty, he knows we must remain spiritually filled.
We cannot give to others what we do not have. Thus, if we are not spiritually filled then our ability to help others is hindered. When we help others, it should be from the overflow of our own life. If we are not sharing from the overflow, then we are giving to others what we ourselves need spiritually. Jesus calls us to be spiritually filled so we can be an example and source to others.
Take time regularly to sit in the presence of the Lord.
Tara Klein—a lover of words—shares her imperfect, unconventional Christian journey as a female, mother, and wife to invite others into God’s unconditional love.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
