Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Luke 5:16

You’re busy. I would suggest that is not only an understatement but probably a fact of life for most of our society and culture.

For the past two weeks, I feel that I have been leading the race of busyness. An unusual number of funerals in a very short span and numerous other unexpected matters popping up along the journey.

What’s so ironic, is that all our modern time-saving technology hasn’t solved the challenge of busyness for any of us along our journey of life. Thus, too often we are spread as thin as ever. And even though we are engaged in meaningful tasks and striving to help others and touch lives in positive ways, this continuous routine has a downside that is far more impactful than just being tired at the end of the day.

We should be ever cognizant of our mandate as Christians to be forever striving to be like Him. This includes all those moments of being bombarded with our busyness of rushing here and there and being greeted by tiredness at the end of the day. Tiredness takes pleasure in ushering us into slumberville and dialing our favorite number on the sleep mattress. You may know that story, but I know it quite well also.

Thus, as disciples of Christ, we read His word and endeavor to follow his examples. That does not just mean doing good deeds and being a blessing to others. Luke highlights one example that is so vitally important and that is, Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray. Therefore, we should endeavor to do the same.

That means it must be done when our culture, our work, our schedules and our family obligations bear down on us in the heat of the day and are insensitive to any leisure or free time whatsoever. Thus, getting away to pray is next to impossible and, especially getting away often. Remember, the demands of life will always compete against the demands of Jesus, and we far too often choose the former. It’s easier. But it won’t get us where Christ wants us to be.

The essence of our discipleship is primarily cultivated in community and interactions with others, but some aspects of it only when we are alone with God.

Even though we engage in morning devotionals often times the Holy Spirit desires to teach us deeper and more profound lessons and longer fellowship. And that can’t happen unless, from time to time; as often as possible, we in fact get alone with God. Consider taking the time to rearrange your priorities today. Get alone with Him.

REV. DR. JAMES TAYLOR is pastor of Jericho Baptist Church in Farmville, his email is: jht3@verizon.net.