Exploring Carnival, relationships, and popular culture from a Catholic perspective
February 2, 2024
Sunday February 4th: The importance of the pause
February 4, 2024
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place.”
Mark 6:30-34
The Gospel of Mark, we are told, is very focused on the humanity of Christ. In today’s Gospel, Jesus was very aware of the hectic time the apostles were having, treating with the large crowds. They could not even find time for a meal. Sounds familiar, when we are on the go without stopping to eat?
Jesus, being filled with compassion, recognized what was happening and so invited them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place.” He is doing the same today, except we must be in tune to hear Him. We are encouraged to find time; take a break from our hectic routine. Lent is a golden opportunity to make a personal retreat, ‘to a quiet place and get some rest.’ However, we must be encouraged to do this as often as possible. Not only is it good for our mental health, but it also helps us spiritually.
It is at times very difficult to retreat from our routine because of demands. However, we are called upon to be like Jesus and have compassion.
