some rest.” For there were so many people coming and going that the apostles had
no time even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a secluded area by themselves.
But people saw them leaving, and many could guess where they were going. So, from
all the towns, they hurried there on foot, arriving ahead of them. As Jesus went ashore,
he saw a large crowd, and he had compassion on them, for they were like sheep without
a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.
Reflect
Some people will say that everyone should be kind and loving since being kind is just as easy
as being selfish. But that’s not really true. Being a loving person requires being attentive to
other’s needs and seeking opportunities to meet those needs. It often requires giving
up things you want or going outside your comfort zone to reach out. And sometimes there
doesn’t seem to be any benefit to kindness. You get no gratitude and may even be taken for
granted.
Jesus recognizes that serving others can be wearing, for his disciples and for us. He calls us to
come aside with him and rest. Even Jesus took time away from his ministry to rest and to pray.
That time apart is essential to a healthy spiritual life. We cannot solve all of the world’s problems
on our own, no matter how hard we try. There will always be those who need the help of a loving
shepherd. By resting in the Lord and drawing strength from him, we can stay faithful to our part
in his mission.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023