The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves.

Mark 6:30-44

The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. Mark 6:30-32

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Mark 6:30-44.  Excerpts from introduction to the commentary for this text and for the first (of three) division (vv30-32):

• The title of this chapter of the commentary for the text is: "The Feeding of the Five Thousand;" the Main idea is: "Jesus’ mission of love and rescue is demonstrated in His feeding of the five thousand;" the title of the first division per the commentary: "Like Jesus We Should Find Rest from Ministry." 
• "John 6:15 informs us that this miracle made such an impact on the crowd that they attempted to take Jesus “by force to make Him king.” Our Lord would refuse their advance and stay the course to the cross, as was His divine destiny."  
• "When Jesus authorizes us and empowers us, we can anticipate God’s blessings in what we do. We must simply believe and go.
• "This was how our Lord mentored His men: Teach them. Send them out.  Have them return. Report and evaluate. I doubt we can improve on this model of discipleship and training."  
• "They had worked hard, putting in many long hours. Still the blessings and joys of ministry were evident."  
• Jesus calls the Twelve together and encourages them to rest. "We can glean several practical insights. (1) There is a time to work (cf. John 9:4). Laziness has no place in the Christian life. (2) We should have periods of rest because Jesus tells us to. Being a workaholic is not spiritual and actually can be sinful. Some make ministry an idol. (3) Rest is best when accompanied both by solitude and companionship. (4) Rest is for a specific period of time. It is not permanent. (5) Even while resting, be prepared for ministry if necessary. A devoted follower of Jesus is never off duty."

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and gives rest - a rest that we can find only through You....physical rest, emotional rest, and a spiritual rest.  Thank You Jesus for how You provide this rest and of course how You save.  I am not deserving of how You save nor how You bless with this rest.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.