Welcome to Day 9 of our 40-day Journey to the Cross devotional. Today we talk about the need inherent in every human to rest and refuel.

While he was in one of the towns, a man was there who had leprosy all over him. He saw Jesus, fell facedown, and begged him, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Reaching out his hand, Jesus touched him, saying, “I am willing; be made clean,” and immediately the leprosy left him. Then he ordered him to tell no one: “But go and show yourself to the priest, and offer what Moses commanded for your cleansing as a testimony to them.” But the news about him spread even more, and large crowds would come together to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. Yet he often withdrew to deserted places and prayed.

Luke 5:12-16

When traveling a long distance, you tend to keep an eye on signs. Especially ones that say something like “Next Gas Station: 167 Miles.” Those signs make you wonder. You check the fuel gauge to make sure you can make it. You think about needing to get out and stretch your legs a bit. You ask yourself, “Why did I just drink that jumbo-sized Dr. Pepper?” Can the kids last that long? The wise traveler plans out times to rest, refuel, and take a bathroom break. These are vital to a successful trip.

Jesus often made times to rest and refuel. While he spent most of his time preaching and teaching the crowds and miraculously healing people, retreating for prayer was central to his ministry. Resting in the heavenly Father and spending time with Him in prayer gave Jesus strength to continue on his journey.

Likewise, our bodies and souls need time to rest and refuel. Spending time at rest in God’s presence strengthens us for our life journey. As we pray, the Holy Spirit brings calm into our chaotic world. As we meditate on Scripture, our Lord speaks truth against all the lies of the world. Planning times to retreat and pray are vital for us to continue walking through life in joy.

Read about another time that Jesus retreated for prayer in Mark 1:35-39. Then pray something like, “Lord, I long for you and for your rest! Refuel me in your presence with your promises…”

Thank you for joining me for Day 9. May you find rest in the Lord this weekend. Join me tomorrow for Day 10 on avoiding distractions.