`But He would withdraw to desolate places and pray´, Luke 5:16.
I believe that having the ability of silence and solitude is a gift. Back home there are always distractions. There is always somewhere to be, someone to see, something to watch, or just anything to avoid silence. But, silence is such an essential part in seeking after the Lord. In Luke 5, as well as numerous times throughout the Gospels, it is mentioned over and over again how Jesus would retreat to quiet places to pray. For Jesus to be able to do his ministry here on earth, He had to be in communication with the Father.
When I read about these points throughout Jesus´ ministry, I think about my own ministry and my time with the Lord. I mean, if Jesus needed to make sure he retreated to a quiet place and pray, how much more should we? And to be honest, this is something i struggle with. I love distraction, and noise, and being around people. But, luckily, here in Palenque, God knows my weakness and has provided tons of downtime to spend with Him. Yesterday we had about a four hour break inbetween ministry stuff and I went ontop of our roof with my Bible, journal, and ipod (which defintely could have been a distraction, but luckily was not), and was able to spend some amazing quiet time with the Lord. I believe it is in those moments when God refills us. It is in those moments when we can unload any burdens we have, and we are no longer relying on our strength, but on His. I am learning more and more about how critical these moments of silence are, and I pray that it continues to be something that I do not put off, but embrace wholeheartedly, knowing that the outcome will be nothing but uplifting.
