NEVER EVER BE TOO BUSY TO PRAY

This afternoon while doing the study on Biblical Purpose during the Roots and Wings session with our DG group, the following scriptures really jumped up at me:

Mark 1:32-38

"At evening, when the sun had set, they brought to Him all who were sick and those who were demon possessed. And the whole city was gathered together at the door. 

The He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and case out many demons; and He did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew Him. 

Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. When they found Him, they said to Him, "Everyone is looking for You". But He said to them "Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth".

The truth just hit me like a ton of bricks:

1. Jesus was a very busy man. In fact He was ministering till late at night healing the sick and casting out demons. The whole city was gathered to see Him.

2. Jesus slept very late. He was doing God's work.

3. Despite sleeping late, He woke up while it was still dark and went to a solitary place to prayed. He did not laze around on His bed and gave excuses of a busy night keeping Him from prayer.

4. After a time of prayer and hearing from God, He received instructions from the Father to go on to the next towns to preach the Gospel for that was the purpose He came forth.

One thing struck me clearly - the Lord led a busy life. His life was so much busier than mine. So busy was He that He ministered late into the night. However He still found the time to wake up early to pray!

Why am I complaining when Jesus Himself could wake up early in the morning even though He had a busy night the day before!

Why was His morning watches so important? It was important as Jesus received clear guidance and direction from the Father for His life and ministry at that particular point in time. Although many (including His disciples) were clamouring for Him to continue ministry in the same place, the Lord heard from the Father to move on to the next towns to fulfil His call.

My fervent prayer: 

Lord please give me the grace to wake up early the following day even after a late night and a busy day. Amen.