Countdown to Easter 17

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35

Jesus, of course, was well aware his presence and words were in demand. That is precisely why He traded an hour or two of sleep for time alone. For Jesus, solitude and quiet, reflection and prayer, were His lifeblood. This was not an isolated incident. It was the rule.

These times of solitude, absent of noise and activity was “the primary place of strength…” In those quiet hours, He cultivated the insight and wisdom that came from His Father. 

Reflection:
Why did Jesus place such a high priority on these times of solitude and silence?

Does solitude and silence have an expressed place in the rhythm of your life?

Action:
I am not suggesting that you get up two hours earlier tomorrow but maybe you could start with 15 minutes. If you live with others, get up before everyone else, turn off the t.v.. Maybe at lunch time you could find a quiet place and just listen for the still small voice of God.  

The goal isn’t necessarily to say anything to God, but simply to be with Him. 

This can often be a challenging exercise, especially if we are used to being surrounded by constant stimuli and noise. Nonetheless, this was one of the secrets to Jesus’ strength – time alone with God in silence. 

Your pastor and partner in ministry,

Kyle

Keep in your prayers C3’s High School Mission Trip March 11-17 to Baxter Springs, KS.  Nick Eiden and family and sponsors will spend spring break growing closer to God and making a difference in the lives of those in this economically depressed area!

Check out some of the kids who will be going. https://www.facebook.com/CrossCurrentC2/?fref=ts