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January 19, 2017
We hear in today’s reading that Jesus, even Jesus, needed to get away. Where did he go? Jesus found peace and refreshment in the familiar, in the midst of his hectic, chaotic life – in a boat on the water. Most likely a fishing boat. Some of Jesus’ closest friends were fishermen. Pretty safe bet that Jesus loved being on or near the water.
What about you? Me? Where did I experience God’s refreshment in my hectic life? At one time, the library. In my growing-up years, of all places – hanging laundry outside on the clothesline. Hot or cold, rain or snow I hung clothes outside! I loved it. I was drawn to it. A routine task offered me time and disposition to be present to God’s refreshing presences. After just minutes alone, yet not alone, I went back inside renewed and refreshed. Picnics – even in the snow!!
A place of refreshment in the evening was in the kitchen washing dishes. I loved every aspect of it. I was drawn to it. Again alone, yet not alone. Jesus enters gently where children hesitate to go. (They fear being asked to help. Jesus is a hands-on sort of fellow.)
It took me a long time to learn that prayer – often my unspoken and unrecognized desire for God, for the gentle, comforting, refreshing presences of Jesus is to be had in the midst of my daily life.
The Good News: Something exciting happens every day to each one of us – Jesus knows my need for refreshment and offers it in some way. Where in my day am I refreshed with God?