How high is rest on your priority list? A recent study found that one in three adults reported not getting enough sleep or rest each day. Another study found that three out of five adults reported feeling tired now more than ever. If we do not prioritize rest, our health will be gravely impacted. If we do not prioritize rest and rejuvenation with the Spirit and with our Lord, our eternal health may be gravely impacted.

“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” (Mark 1:35)

We read about Jesus doing this often, stealing away so that He could spend private time in prayer with God the Father. Oftentimes, this would come after Jesus had been preaching and healing for an extended period of time. Jesus needed rest and He knew it. He didn’t act like a “tough guy,” claiming He didn’t need rest or prayer time because He was so strong. He recognized it and sought it. Jesus needed rest and to have His spirit renewed through conversation with God. And He instructed us to do the same.

“But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6)

If Jesus needed these moments of rest and solitary prayer, how much more do we? Jesus could admit that He needed the rest; we need to be able to admit it as well and make it a priority. On this extended holiday weekend, find some private time to spend with your Heavenly Father and allow yourself renewing rest.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.