Alone time

And early in the morning, while it was still dark, He arose and went out and departed to a lonely place and was praying there. (Mark 1:35)

But He Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray. (Luke 5:16)

Jesus encourages us as his disciples to follow him.  We read much in the gospels of his teaching, healing, and driving out demons.  But of his worship, and personal habits we are told little. His prayer life however is mentioned in all four gospels. Jesus, Son of God and Messiah would often “slip away” to pray.  Have you ever wondered why?

Why would Jesus need to get away by himself and pray?  It was a habit that was so extraordinary that the gospels mention it several times.  The gospel writers found his prayer habits noteworthy, even for a Rabbi! 

What did Jesus gain through this prayer life?  Wisdom?  Courage?  Insight and direction?  His prayer life was personal and private.  It was obviously important to him.  To get up before the sun just to pray tells us that this prayer life went beyond devotion.  He was dependent on prayer.  Why?

I’ve asked you lots of questions here and provided few answers.  Why?  Because you won’t find the answers here.  You’ll find them “in the early morning, while it is still dark.”  You’ll find them as you “slip away to the wilderness.”  If you think you don’t need to do this or you don’t have time - remember whom you have chosen to follow.  A more powerful and busy person has never walked the earth than Jesus of Nazareth. 

Maybe its time to follow his example?

See you Sunday!
Missy