Come away to a deserted place, said He.
From the Lectionary for this week, Mark 6:30-34:
"The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, 'Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.' For many were coming and going, and they did not even have leisure to eat. And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves."
I stumbled happily upon this passage this morning as I prepare to depart for the Jesuit run retreat at Manresa, in Convent, Louisiana, next Thursday. As was the case last year, I have encountered mixed reactions as I've shared my upcoming trip with friends and acquaintances. Some, perhaps other seekers (whether they know it or not), are intrigued. And there are the confused looks as well. I am encouraged that Christ espoused the importance of retreat during His time here on this busy planet.
Things I have been chewing on lately:
The Imitation of Christ, has flooded me with the idea that thinking in and of itself is not the path to devotion. Can this be? I'll think about it (he says with a smile).
He continually meets me where I am and for this I am truly grateful.
"The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, 'Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.' For many were coming and going, and they did not even have leisure to eat. And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves."
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| The Chapel at Manresa |
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| One of the awe inspiring alleys of oaks at Manresa. |
The Imitation of Christ, has flooded me with the idea that thinking in and of itself is not the path to devotion. Can this be? I'll think about it (he says with a smile).
He continually meets me where I am and for this I am truly grateful.
