Going to a deserted place - Sept 2
“At daybreak, Jesus left and went to a deserted place.” Lk 4:42
One of the things I can most identify with Jesus is he liked his morning solitude and quiet. I too am an early riser and find this is my favourite time of day. It is a time for prayer, reading, and reflection.
In the Luke text Jesus had a very busy and late day. He had been doing a lot of healing, which I imagine requires a lot of attentive listening. Even at sunset the crowds were bringing him people to heal. So, early the next morning Jesus seeks out a little solitude and silence to refresh his spirit.
This was not a one-time excursion, but Jesus is often portrayed in the gospels as going out to a deserted play in the morning to pray. And sadly, seemingly just as often, the crowds find him and disrupt his quiet time. I often groan on behalf of Jesus when I read about the crowds finding him. Let the poor guy get some quiet and rest.
Despite the interruptions, Jesus models for us an integrated life of action and contemplation. We are in this world to do God’s will, and that can involve a lot of activity, be we can only know God’s will by taking time to be attentive and to listen. In silence and solitude we are reminded of who we are and who God is. Even for Jesus – who you wouldn’t think would need it – this was an important time to nurture his relationship with his father, and to listen for God’s will.
Let’s remember to give others the time and space to nurture their inner lives, to listen for what God may be saying to them, and to rest in the assuredness of God’s love.