“Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” — Mark 6:31

We were created for meaningful work, but we were never created for endless work.

When Jesus saw His disciples exhausted by the demands of ministry, He did not praise their relentless schedule. He told them, “Come aside… and rest a while.” The work was important, but so were the workers.

Recreation can be one of God’s gifts for restoring us. A fishing trip, a walk through the woods, time with friends, sitting beside the water, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon may look unproductive, but something important may be happening. The body rests. The mind clears. Relationships deepen. The soul breathes again.

God “gives us richly all things to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17). He did not create a merely functional world. He filled it with beauty, laughter, friendship, flavor, music, sunsets, and countless things that bring delight.

Of course, a gift can become a god. Recreation should never replace our responsibilities or our relationship with God. But neither should we feel guilty for gratefully enjoying what He has given.

We are servants, not saviors. The world can continue while we rest.

So sometimes, put the work down. Go fishing. Sit on the porch. Laugh with friends. Watch the sunset.

Receive the moment as a gift from God—and thank the Giver. ©

–PGR

Photo by Jeff Perot