Parenting by Design - July 29

Need for Rest

Mark 6:30-31:  "The apostles gathered together with Jesus; and they reported to Him all that they had done and taught. And He said to them, ‘Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a while'" (NASU).

Christ had sent the disciples out in two's on their first mission trip to preach the Kingdom of God, cast out demons and heal.  Their trips were successful and they returned to report what had happened.  It is apparent the people around were aware of their success as well because they were besieged by requests for their time, so much that they had no time even to eat!

Imagine the feeling - flushed with success, with people clamoring for your attention, begging for a little of your time.  It had to feel pretty good to be needed like that.  Yet, Jesus recognized some boundaries were necessary or the disciples were going to be used up in a hurry.  They needed time to rest.

You are no different.  Your kids may demand every minute of your time, and it may feel pretty good to be needed that much, but you need to be aware that you are limited in energy and you will be no good to anyone if you don't get some rest now and then. 

Taking time to rest and revitalize is as important to your kids as it is to you.