ministry rhythm

When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing.

Luke 9:11

Jesus planned to take a strategic retreat with His disciples to the town of Bethsaida. The goal appears to have been both a rest from busy ministry and a chance to debrief with His apostles who had all just returned from a season in which Jesus had sent them out into the surrounding villages to preach, heal, and proclaim His kingdom. But the break never came as planned.

News about Jesus seems to have traveled faster than He did. The crowds of needy souls showed up in Bethsaida, and Jesus did not dismay. Instead, He loved them by welcoming them, preaching His good news, and healing the sick among them. Nothing changed. He kept serving those He came to save.

Jesus shows us that loving and caring for people doesn’t really need an off switch. Yes, there is wisdom in taking a break. Yes, a good time of Sabbath is healthy for the soul of the minister and Jesus certainly modeled that practice. Sinners need Jesus though. They will come to Him. We should always welcome those who do so!

Later in the text it is clear that Jesus does get some alone time with His disciples (Luke 9:18). Busy seasons don’t last forever. God will bring us rest and honor our desire for Sabbath with Him. Sometimes that comes as we plan it. Sometimes it comes as a time of refreshing from Him. Living in a ministry rhythm means we are always ready to serve, worship, or rest in the Lord.