Ministry and solitude

Luke 4 : 38 - 44

At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place

In the culture that we live, we are easily drawn into 'muchness' and manyness' (Richard Foster). Our goal oriented society defines us as useful and successful if we are busy. This mindset often creeps into our churches and we may even adopt a work ethic that is 'Christianized'. Do- ing much is not wrong in itself. It becomes unfruitful when we lose focus on God and make an end of the means.

There is always a danger that without places where we are silent and alone to listen deeply to God, our actions become merely automatic and devoid of the Spirit's fullness.

Jesus himself models the tension between ministry and solitude, between action and contemplation. In this little episode, we read a statement that reveals something of Jesus' need for disengagement........'at daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place'.......(in Mark 1: 35, it is mentioned that he prayed) before re-engaging in ministry. This statement is sandwiched between reports of his ministry of healing, deliverance and preaching. It also seems that in solitude he sought clarity of direction. Rather than giving in to the demands of the people (who were clamoring for more of his healing), he stated clearly his need to preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns.........."because that is why I was sent".

It is easy to be swayed by the opinions of others, especially when it comes to Christian ministry. There is a temptation to please others who want us to serve in a particular area, especially when we are told that we are much needed and could contribute much to the ministry. These are the 'external' forces that I have had to deal with and I must admit it was never easy to say 'No'. But discernment involves a consideration of more than these external factors. Maybe that's why it is truly an 'art', one that requires much solitary prayer. There are always the inner movements to consider: when I pray about this, does the Spirit give a sense of deep peace? Or we may even need go back a step or two and ask God about the real purpose of our lives. Does this choice fit in with who I am and why God has placed me in this place at this time?

As I see how Jesus gained clarity by going off to a solitary place to commune with his Father, I am encouraged to do the same. And how much more I need to seek clarity about my life's purpose and direction.