"Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while." (Mark 6:31). Jesus is not a cruel supervisor. After the Twelve had returned from their preaching, Jesus wanted them to rest, "for there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat."
So, God knows when we need a rest, and He would gladly give that rest. His advice? Go to a deserted place by yourself. After we had done much divine service, we need to go to a quiet place and commune with Him. This is the secret to a sustained life of service.
Immediately He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He sent the multitude away. And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray. (Mark 6:45-46)
Jesus knew that secret very well. And very often, we see how Jesus would retreat by Himself to pray. In the verses above, it appears even clearer, that Jesus sent everyone away so that He can pray in quietness. Do we do that? Do we actively seek out opportunities to be quiet with God?
Being the only believer in the family, I find it difficult to pray regularly. However, when the opportunity arises for me to pray (e.g. when I am the only one at home or when I have the room to myself), do I even grab hold of it?
A sustained life of service to God is one that is intertwined with prayers in quietness.
Because then can you ponder and remember about the true purpose of your service, and to stay guided by Jesus' lead.
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