Matthew 14:23 After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on a mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.
In this passage, Jesus is walking through one of the darkest days of His life as He grieved the death of His closest companion and cousin, John the Baptist. Not only was His heart heavy with deep sorrow, He knew there was still work to be done. His disciples were in grave danger and needed His help, the people were hungry and needed to be fed, the sick were suffering and needed to be healed, but all Jesus needed was time to breathe. He needed time in the presence of His Father, to feel His closeness on a day when He couldn’t catch His breath.
Have you ever felt that way? Is your life topsy-turvy and you’re just tired? Jesus understands and can empathize with you during your times of duress, exhaustion, grief, and discouragement. He understands how you feel when your resources are expended, your marriage is not what you hoped for, and your children are in crisis. He understands that you must go on despite how you feel, but He also gives you the example of finding peace in the midst of it all. Today, I challenge you to get away with your Heavenly Father and pray. Tell Him how you feel, seek His comfort, and just be still with Him. (Psalm 46:10)
Consider these questions as you discover Jesus’ answer for peace in the midst of chaos:
Do I feel like I am in this battle alone and can’t catch my breath? Or, am I intentionally taking time to be alone with God so that He can give me clarity, encouragement, comfort, and peace?
Do I see my spouse, my kids, or other family members as the reason for all of my frustrations, when in fact, they are the catalyst that pushes me towards Jesus who compels me to pray, love, and forgive?
Am I abiding in the presence of God or striving in the midst of stress?
Liza Barney
Campus Pastor (Westside)
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