Sixteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time

On warm summer weekends we encounter I-5’s paradox:  thousands of vacationers on their way out of Seattle, and thousands of vacationers on their way into Seattle.  Perhaps the paradox can be unraveled by the search that all of us have for a new and different place to refresh our wearied spirits.  Jesus knew about this human need and search for rest.

In today’s gospel story he tells his apostles that they need a little R&R.  His apostles had just come back from their first missionary trip.  It’s true they were excited about all they had seen and done, but Jesus knew they were also tired and needed some time off.  Preaching, teaching, and healing are rewarding but also draining.

Mark tells us that despite Jesus’ best intentions, he was not very successful as a tour guide.  His plan to take his friends on a boat trip to a deserted place failed.  The crowds beat them to it by arriving ahead on foot.  This final act by the people touched the heart of Jesus.  He looked at them with compassion.  He forgot about vacation time and began to feed them with his words.

This lovely story captures the human tension of the need to get away from it all and our need to respond to the demands of love that is commitment.  We all need rest – even the disciples.  Even Jesus.  If you are still planning your summer vacation make sure you take time out for yourself to rest.  We need to “come away,” that is, to withdraw or retreat from the busyness of our lives.

We need to do it “by ourselves,” that is, with an attitude of solitude (even if it’s in a group!)  The “deserted place,” whether that’s your room or a retreat house, is sometimes essential for prayer.  The physical setting is important.  That’s not to say you can’t pray anywhere, but sometimes the desert is the best place.  So, come away with Jesus to a solitary place this summer, and pray.

Paul A. Magnano

Pastor