Alone!

It is sad how loneliness is experienced by some even in the midst of a crowded room. With all the people in the world, why should anyone be left to feel alone? On the other hand, in a life filled with encounters with others and the demands associated with such, spending some time alone can be something highly prized.

Paul Tillich (German theologian and teacher, 1886-1965) is quoted as stating, “Language has created the word, ‘loneliness’, to express the pain of being alone, and the word ‘solitude’, to express the glory of being alone.” The first is not good, but the latter is highly beneficial in physical, emotional, and spiritual ways.

As Jesus went about His ministry here on earth, His growing popularity created such a challenge that there were times He and the disciples “had no leisure even to eat.” ( Mark 6:31 ESV) Because of this they had to slip away to get some time alone. ( Mark 6:32)

Luke recorded this practice of Jesus as follows:
“(15) But now even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities. (16) But HE WOULD WITHDRAW TO DESOLATE PLACES AND PRAY.” ( Luke 5:16 ESV)

The Greek word translated “desolate” is a word that was used for the wilderness or desert (i.e. Mark 1:3; Hebrews 3:8) and as the designation of a desolate place (i.e. Mark 1:35 and 6:31-32 ESV). According to Strong’s Lexicon this word means “solitary, lonely, desolate, uninhabited” and was also used with reference to one who is deserted by another.

Jesus’ purpose for withdrawing was for some SOLITARY TIME spent in prayer. If the Son of God needed that time while upon this earth, who are we to think we do not need the same? In the midst of busy lives such time should be seen as glorious and precious.

I pray that each one reading this focus has the refreshing blessing of family, friends, and especially brothers and sisters in Christ who offer freedom from the pain of loneliness. If that is not the case I want you to know God cares and so do I. However, I also pray that we are each able to find the great blessing of spending some SOLITARY TIME in meditation on God’s Word and in prayer. That alone time can become a great source of refreshment and strength in preparation for the opportunities God provides for serving His purposes.

Have a great day INSPIRED BY SOME QUIET TIME!
Carl

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