Key Verses: Luke 5:15-16 “However, the report went around concerning Him all the more; and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by Him of their infirmities. So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed.” Solitude is a spiritual discipline that is vital for our health as Christians. Despite the importance of having time completely alone with God, most people cannot stand being alone. The thought of going to a secluded place in the woods, a park or even in their home brings some people extreme anxiety. Not only is solitude a practice most don’t understand or desire to do, it also a very difficult thing to achieve. In this modern age which is full of technology one is rarely ever truly alone and able to focus on God. We always have a phone call to make, an email to send, or something to post on our social media pages. Some of us would actually enjoy having some alone time, and quiet time with God, but we just don’t know how to get it done in the midst of our crazy schedules. In Luke 5, we see that Jesus not only valued and desired solitude, He also found a way to make sure He had ample alone time with God. Right before V.15-16, Jesus had just cleansed a leper and this leper went out and told everyone despite Jesus request (V.12-14). As a result of this man’s testimony many people, likely thousands of people came to Jesus to be healed. The text also tells us that Jesus healed them. Now we need to make sure we notice what Jesus does as a result of a busy ministry and being overwhelmed by thousands of people. V16 tells us that He went away often into wilderness to pray. Why did Jesus do this? He understood that in order to effectively serve the Father and serve others He needed time to recharge by spending time in complete solitude where He could pray unhindered. Many of us have lives that are spinning out of control. We are tired and it shows. Some of us want to serve in the church and help our families grow closer to God, but because of the busyness of life we are struggling to find the energy to do so. Once again we need to imitate our Lord and Savior. When His life and ministry became extremely busy He went and found a place of solitude where He would pray unhindered to the Father and he found the energy to continue in His calling. Friends we are all called to serve the Lord but many of us are failing due to exhaustion. We need to be reconnected to the Father. That reconnection comes through unhindered prayer and we only find that in real solitude. If you are exhausted today my challenge to you is simple. Go be alone. No cellphone, no IPad, no Apple Watch, or anything like that, and pray. Just sit in the stillness and listen to God while He listens to your prayers. I promise you will be recharged if you make this a regular practice!
