But now even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities. But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray. Luke 5:15–16 (ESV)
“There’s not enough of me to go around,” I told my husband. A friend’s father had died, and I wanted to make her a meal. I hadn’t talked to my grown kids in several days and wanted to check in with them. Another friend was facing tough medical issues, and I wanted to visit with her. In fact, everyone I knew was in a place of need.
My longing to help others soon transformed into worry, panic, and stress. Jesus must have felt similar pressure. People clamored for His help, and His compassionate heart never wanted to turn anyone away. He spent long days teaching, healing, comforting, and feeding those who came to Him. Yet when the needs arrived in a never-ending flood, He didn’t push harder, longer, or faster. He didn’t complain or draw attention to how exhausted and burdened He felt. Instead, He withdrew to pray.
When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I can remember Jesus’s example. I can step back to a place of quiet and pray. As I do that, He equips and strengthens me and brings new wisdom, showing me how to prioritize my efforts. He reminds me that the Body has many members, and together we can do His will. Most important, He deepens my reliance on Him. Of course there is not enough of me to help in every way I’d like. I’m not the Savior; He is. When we fret as if the burden of every human need is on our shoulders, let’s withdraw to a quiet place with our Lord. We don’t have to be enough. Jesus already is.
Faith Step: Today, withdraw to a quiet place and talk to Jesus about the needs of your family and friends.
