This sermon explores the importance of rest, prayer, and re-connection with God, as exemplified by Jesus in the gospels, for gaining the strength to fulfill our divine purpose and calling.
As we begin today, I want you to imagine this scene in your mind; A seasoned surfer, skillfully riding the waves, perfectly attuned to the rhythm of the ocean. Masterfully watching and waiting as the tide comes in and goes out, all the while, keeping a sharp eye out for that perfect wave. All at once, the surfer is up - moving effortlessly across the ocean, perfectly attuned with the water below them. You watch as this surfer repeats this process over and over again. Resting when needed, furiously paddling when needed, and gliding across the waves with enviable skill.
In a similar vein, our spiritual lives can find resonance in the story of Jesus' relationship and divine rhythm with the Father. Just as a skilled surfer harnesses the power of the waves, Jesus tapped into the divine currents of grace and peace with intention and precision.
Throughout the gospels we see Jesus minister to others at all times of day and night. He seemingly has an unlimited ability to be present and powerful in the lives of everyone around Him. But there is a not-so-secret to His strength, and it’s His intimate connection with the Father. Today, as we look to His example we are reminded of the need for rest, prayer, and re-connection. It’s in this divine rhythm that we, like Jesus, can experience a divine connection and receive the strength we need to fulfill our divine purpose and calling.
Read Mark 1:29-34
As we begin, observe Jesus' immediate response to the needs of others. He enters the house of Simon and Andrew, finding Simon's mother-in-law ill with a fever. The key point here is not just the healing but the compassion that precedes it. Jesus is deeply moved by the suffering of others. He is present and aware of the needs around Him… And that’s not something you can do if you’re overly tired, exhausted, and drained from the unsustainable pace of life you’ve been living.
Pastor - This could be a good place to share a personal story about what happens to you when you’re tired, overworked or burnt out on something. How does it impact your memory, relationships, etc… Try to connect the congregation back to the importance of keeping healthy rhythms.
We see Simon’s mother in law healed, up, and serving her houseguests ... View this full sermon with PRO Premium
He is present and aware of the needs around Him… And that’s not something you can do if you’re overly tired, exhausted, and drained from the unsustainable pace of life you’ve been living.
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