Jesus Knew When It Was Time To Rest


Many of us are familiar with the account of Jesus with the woman at the well. I wrote about her just two days ago. We may not all recall how Jesus ended up encountering her. Oh I know he was Spirit led, but something very natural put him in the position for this divine encounter. 

It's in John 14:6, "Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well."

Jesus was tired. Ever get tired? Sure you do.

I do a lot of traveling. It’s often by plane, but I get some long drives in as well. Sometimes when the drive is long I find myself looking for a rest stop. Somewhere to pull over and be refreshed so that I can continue on my journey. That's kind of like what happened with Jesus on his trip. He knew he needed to take a break.

“Banksy,” is an anonymous, England based, graffiti artist. (You read that right). He's credited with the quote, "If you get tired learn to rest, not to quit."

Sometimes life can be pretty exhausting. Home, children, work, ministry, and so many activities can make the journey rather tiresome. If Jesus took time to rest, it must be pretty important. Also, if Jesus took time to rest then we know it's ok to take time to rest. You may have to get creative to do it. Go for a walk on your lunch break. Sit alone on a park bench. Sit alone in worship for a few minutes while your little one is napping. Let your thoughts go to what is good and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8), and you will find your strength being renewed.

We can't say, "I have too much to do." Jesus had more to do than any of us ever will, but he would still turn to his disciples and say,

"Let's go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile," (Mark 6:31).

A little time to yourself, and alone with God, is never selfish. In fact, it may be one of the most generous things you can do for those in your life. Get some rest. When you do you’re acting like Jesus.

Following the Son,

James A Williams

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