Today’s Bible reading is Genesis 32 and Luke 5.
In Luke 5, the buzz surrounding Jesus is growing. A man with an unclean spirit in Capernaum had been healed (Luke 4:31-37), which led to all who were sick in Capernaum coming to Jesus (Luke 4:40-41). As he carries the good news of the kingdom of God to other villages and cities (Luke 4:43), reports about him are swirling through the countryside (Luke 4:37). He has just healed a man full of leprosy (Luke 5:12-14) and now, “even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities (Luke 5:15).
But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray. (Luke 5:16)
I’m guessing you’ve had a busy week. I know I have. But here’s an example worth following this weekend. Take the time to strategically “withdraw”–shut your door, turn off the TV, put the phone in a drawer, take a walk; whatever you need to do to get away from the noise–and pray.
Jesus saw the need. Jesus took the time. Jesus withdrew. Let’s follow his lead this weekend.