“Then Jesus ordered him, “Don’t tell anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.” 15 Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Luke 5.14-15
Jesus healed the leper. Asked him not to tell anyone. But of course, word spread like wildfire. More and more people seek Jesus out. Jesus finds himself withdrawing more and more to “lonely place” where he prayed.
Does this sound like a successful ministry to you? Think about the Asbury outpouring/revival. God’s Spirit showed up in big ways. Dozens, then hundreds and final tens of thousands of people flock to where the Spirit is burning and alive. People from all over the world. But the organizers become weary. My friend Mark Swayze helps manage the shifts of worship leaders while never actually leading worship himself. Worship was happening 24/7 for two weeks before those leading sensed a peace to bring an end to the outpouring – sending forth those who heard, saw and experienced God in this place.
But what I heard from the organizers, they were exhausted. The school and town was consumed with people, strangers, seekers, worshippers. The police, fire, EMS, and local church pastors and school administrators were so blessed but so weary.
In comparison, Jesus meanwhile – fully human and fully God, was ministering all the same. He was limited in his flesh and had to retreat “often” to places by himself, recuperate, pray and regain strength. Doing God’s word is wonderful and sometimes a glorious burden leading to weariness and exhaustion.
This week I was in front of 125 Methodist pastors and students. For six straight days I ministered, poured out, planned. I was wearisome. Finally I was able to come home for 24 hours to rest, first day home in seven days. But God’s work continues and will continue tomorrow and in the two weeks following as my schedule is full and blessed.
When God shows up, people show up. And those who are serving God in that moment find themselves needing to rest. If Jesus required it, how much more shall we?
“O Lord God, you are faithful. I know you are moving. You have given me your vision to spread your name, raise up leaders, make disciples. I know my time will be limited as I am only one to help carry the torch of the flame of your Gospel. Thank you for these days. For your power and love. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill me with your grace. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen