Jesus, on the importance of rest

 

"Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while..." (Mark 6:31)

Today's society is work-oriented. One is expected to work hard in order to earn well. We became workaholics...that is addicted to work in exchange for cash. Work actually is a means to holiness. But if we abuse it, it becomes our downfall. The money we earned will just be spent in one's hospitalization.

Jesus, in today's Gospel reading (Mark 6:30-34), speaks about the importance of rest in one's life. He advises us all to take time to go away and rest for a while. After all, our body is not built to last. It grows old, it becomes a victim of wear and tear, and it grows tired.  It badly needs replenishment. We need to balance activity and rest. We need to love our bodies because it is the temple of the Holy Spirit!