Lonely Places

Lots of folks feel lonely at this season of the year. But there is a different kind of lonely place.

Luke 5:16 says

"But Jesus often withdrew to lonely place and prayed."

I'm not much for lonely places. Solitude drains me. I feel anxious, bored, vulnerable and well... lonely. On the other hand, being with people energizes me. Yet I have been discovering that this part of my journey with Jesus is critical to my growth.

If Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed, then there is certainly something in it of value for me. Jesus, the Lord, pulling away from outside influences, to a place of personal face to face with God. Removed from all men's perceptions (either that boosted his ego or drug him down) he could just... be, listen, hear, obey. And above it all... tell His Father that He loved Him.

I pray that God will continue to lead me into this area of lonely places each day.

Jesus knew that lonely places aren't so bad if God is there. Now I know that too!
VAN