35 Early in the morning, well before sunrise, Jesus rose and went to a deserted place where he could be alone in prayer. 36 Simon and those with him tracked him down. 37 When they found him, they told him, “Everyone’s looking for you!”
Reflection
Jesus had a very busy and exhausting day. In Mark Chapter 1 Jesus is calling to the disciples to come and join him, he’s healing the sick and casting out demons from the crowds of people who came to Jesus for healing. Then, before sunrise, Jesus rose to pray alone in a deserted place, until he was tracked down by his disciples who told him, “Everyone’s looking for you!” I wonder what Jesus was praying for alone in that place of solitude? Was Jesus asking for strength and patience, or was Jesus sitting in silence listening for God to speak? Maybe Jesus
was expressing gratitude for God’s constant presence and giving thanks to God for God’s loving kindness during his hectic life of ministry. Whatever Jesus prayed in those early morning hours, it showed how important Jesus held his relationship with God, to start the day together in prayer.
I think we can all relate to life being hectic, I know that I can, and any attempts we make to find that quiet place to meet God is often interrupted by the needs of others. Sometimes we take prayer for granted. Jesus’ example makes me feel grateful for the privilege we have to be able to meet with God in prayer at any time and at any place, with no appointment necessary.
This verse tells us so much about Jesus. It shows us that he started his day with God in prayer. It shows us God is always with us and available to guide us, that God is just a prayer away. I’m so grateful that God is always seeking to draw us into relationship so that we can experience God’s love, forgiveness and grace.
by Jeneene Reduker
For Pondering and Prayer
Gratitude is at the heart of all prayer. When we enter God’s loving presence we grow in grace and learn to extend mercy to others. John Wesley, founder of Methodism said, Prayer, “is the grand means of drawing near to God.” (Letter to Miss March, 3-29-1760); and it is “the breath of our spiritual life” (NT Notes, 1 Thes. 5:16). Have you found a place in your hectic day to draw near to God and listen for God’s voice? Each time you pray this week, whether for someone else, for forgiveness or to just sit in God’s presence, say “thank you” to God, and be
grateful for all God has done for you through Jesus.
Prayer: Holy and Loving God, we often take prayer for granted and that you are always there for us. Forgive us God. Help us to set aside time to listen in prayer with you each day. We give you thanks God, for seeking us out, for loving us, and guiding us each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
