“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed” Mark 1:35
A few years ago, I was on vacation at a resort. Every morning I would wake up and go eat breakfast and immediately hit the beach. I’d spend the day swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, shooting hoops, and exploring nature. Each day was packed full of events that by the end of it, I was exhausted and ready for bed.
As the trip carried on, I realized that although I was in paradise enjoying the beautiful, warm weather, I still wasn’t totally satisfied. I was discontent. Even though I had countless activities to choose from at the resort, I still wanted more. Don’t get me wrong, I was having a BLAST! But, there was something in me that wasn’t completely fulfilled.
One day while I was exploring, I came across this little church off in the corner of the resort. It was an outdoor church that overlooked a beautiful pond. I stepped into the sanctuary of the church and looked around. I suddenly realized something. I had filled my days with activity after activity and neglected something that was in my power to do all along — get alone with God.
Throughout the Bible, we find numerous examples of ‘God spaces’. In Genesis 12, As Abram (later renamed, “Abraham”) is traveling to the land God promised him, he pitches a tent – or altar – that eventually is named, Bethel, which stands for “House of God”. As the New Testament believers gathered in the upper room in Acts 2, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Even Paul, who found himself in jail, began to lift up worship to God, and suddenly an earthquake came and shook the foundations of the prison where everyone’s chains were broken and the doors opened.
These examples serve as reminders to us of the opportunity we have everyday to set our eyes on Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith. Don’t get me wrong, I would love to say this happens everyday for me, but it doesn’t. But even when I don’t set aside intentional time with my Father, He is right there to meet with grace, love, and open arms. The power you need is found in His presence! Where’s that place for you? Even if you’re alone in the car, you serve a God that can meet you any time, any place — He just needs a little space!