One of the aspects of Jesus’ life we can easily miss because we know how often he was in large crowds was how He went away to be alone and to pray. He not only got away from people in general, but also even His small circle of friends and disciples.

Listen to Mark 1:35 …

Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.

This is one of those verses where you don’t need to study the original language to be able to interpret the real meaning. Because it’s literal. … He got up early before everyone else. He went away from everyone else. To pray. He sought solitude, sanctuary, and solace.

Let’s look at another verse that gets even more interesting … After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.

I know of a mom who would need a moment to re-group herself when her kids were little. She would say, Mommy is going in the closet and shutting the door. I need you to be really quiet and I’ll be right back in just a few minutes. Every time, after about three minutes of quiet and prayer, she would open the door and there will be every child, sitting right outside the door, waiting quietly for her.

Whether Jesus was literally hidden as in invisible or He just had to take a moment like that mom, the principle is the same. Jesus had to get away and be alone so we do too. Self-care in silence and solitude in moment of sanctuary is critical to our well-being.

When was the last time you actually sought after solitude - not with your phone or book… but in complete solitude? Just you and silence. What might we be missing if we don’t follow Christ's example in this?

Let’s pray together: “Heavenly Father, help me to make a practice of finding that alone time, just like You did. Help me to find silence, solace, and sanctuary in You. As above, so below.”

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