Jesus’ Prayer Priority
Bible in a Year: Isaiah 41-42; 1 Thessalonians 1
Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place. Mark 1:35
Today's Scripture: Mark 1:29-39
Insight
Jesus modeled many things perfectly for us, including His consistent priority of prayer. It was perhaps this example that caused His disciples to ask for His help in this important area. Luke 11:1 says, “One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.’ ” Christ responded by giving them a model of prayer that we refer to as the Lord’s Prayer. It begins with focus on the person, holiness, and kingdom of our heavenly Father (v. 2). Then it turns to our daily needs—even needs so basic as our daily food (v. 3). Jesus then closes with an expression of concern for our relationships with others (v. 4). In these few words, He gives us a magnificent blueprint for our own prayers. As we leave the noise around us and pray to our heavenly Father, we can listen to Him speaking to us.
For further study, listen to the podcast: Waiting in Silent Rest for God
The Arctic lights of the aurora borealis (the northern lights) are well known for their shimmering green and violet light, but did you know they also emit low frequency electromagnetic (radio) waves? Special devices can convert these natural radio signals into audible whooshing and crackling noises. However, to record these otherwise inaudible vibrations of electric and magnetic energy, you must travel at least four miles away from human sources of sound or electricity that could interfere with the radio receivers.
It’s also sometimes necessary to leave the noise of our lives to hear God’s voice. Mark’s gospel describes Jesus waking up before dawn and finding a “solitary” place to pray (1:35). He’d stayed up late the night before, healing and freeing people from demons (vv. 21-32). The “whole town” had watched (v. 33). Can you imagine their joy and awe? But while Jesus willingly served them, the experience was likely also exhausting.
So the next morning, Jesus took time to find quiet before God, despite the fact that the people were looking for him (v. 37). Jesus’ example shows us the value He placed on spending time alone in prayer.
Today, take a break and listen for God’s voice in the quiet (Psalm 46:10). Let Him reorder your priorities and refresh your soul so you can enjoy the peace He offers.
Reflect & Pray
How can we take time to be still before God? Why might you be hesitant to spend time in silence with Him?
Dear God, please show me how to give more of myself to You as I pay attention to You.