Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer
February 27: Numbers 21-23; Mark 6-7
Scripture: Mark (NIV) 6:31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they [the disciples and Jesus] did not even have a chance to eat, he [Jesus] said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
Observation: When God created man, He set the seventh day as a day of rest. Jesus later said that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. (Mark 2:27) In other words the Sabbath was given as a blessing to man and meant to minister to man. The Creator knew His creation would need rest. Here Jesus recognized the need of His disciples. These were His words and His plan. NOTE: The time in the boat was the quiet, restful time they spent just with Him. People were waiting for Him when they arrived on the other shore.
Application: The first and most important thing to recognize about vacations is that they are not meant to be time away from God. Jesus said, “Come WITH ME.” Every week I can look forward to such a time as I gather with other believers. Second, He said to come “by yourselves.” We are not to take the stress causing people/things with us. This is just time WITH HIM. Third, He is taking us to a “quiet place.” His voice will not be drowned out by other noise. Forth, He wants us to “rest.” This is not a working vacation. NOTE: For Sharon and me, our travel time is often the quiet, restful time we have just with Him. So it is good not to be in a hurry. We enjoy the drive.
Prayer: Lord, I am so thankful that you know my limitations and faithfully provide for them. Amen
Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!
SOAPs by Pastor Leon 