Dismissing the Crowds

"After he had dismissed them, he went up on the mountainside by himself to pray." Matthew 14:23.

Boy did God send this verse to me at the right time! My husband and I are at a point in our lives where the demands of many outweigh our hours and energy. I am sure everyone can relate. We do not live on this earth without experiencing the overwhelming seasons that come and go. We try to prepare for the tough ones and are grateful for the calm ones.

John the Baptist was beheaded at the request of Herodias, King Herod's sister-in-law. Once the news got to the disciples they went and got the body , buried him and informed Jesus who loved John as cousin and friend. When Jesus heard the news he went off by himself to handle His grief. Thousands of people had heard of the wonders and miracles Jesus was performing and began gathering around Him not allowing Him to take the needed time. Jesus knew they needed Him so he laid aside His own needs and "fed the thousands". There were still many people there who wanted Him, needed Him, wanted to touch Him but Jesus knew the value in retreating. He dismissed the people not because He didn't think their needs were worthy but rather He knew the importance of solitude and prayer to His Father for rest, renewal and restoration of His soul.

My Bible Study states "He said no to the important in order to say yes to the vital. He said no to a good opportunity in order to say yes to a better opportunity. It wasn't a selfish decision. It was a deliberate choice to honor priorities."

Christ will show us the daily priorities needed to live out His will, not our own will or the will of another. As you live your life, remember to say yes to the One who is vital in your life!