It is well known that Mark did not arrange Peter’s recollections of his three years with Jesus chronologically. Rather, Mark, the editor/redactor, sought to emphasize certain things, probably the things that Peter emphasized.
In today’s passage we can see something that is easily missed by the casual reader. In verses 16-34 Mark records miracles, power, huge crowds, authority . . . . really big miraculous scenes. Same thing in verses 39-45.
What’s in between? Prayer. Jesus alone with God. Silence. Solitude. Jesus talking to God as a child would talk to his Father. And listening. I suspect that Jesus did a lot more listening than talking. Did Jesus pray constantly throughout each day? . . . . most certainly .. . .being attentive to God, asking, thanking, thinking, imagining. . . . . . .but none of this precluded the need to be alone with God away from everything else and away from people. This is where the power to bring the kingdom of God to earth came from. The power is not mechanical, like recharging a battery. The power is in the loving Father Son relationship. And that is true for us as well.
I’m guessing that Jesus would also suggest that we need this very same thing. I’m also guessing that in the car on the way to work doesn’t make a good substitute for what we read here.
As I read your reflections, I realize how much I really do need this time alone in prayer with God. My reason for "needing" this time is my own recharging and so I can "make it through" the tough times. However, that is NOT God's reason. His reason is so I can be energized to serve Him and His Kingdom. My view is selfish. My needs will be met (by Him) when I change my focus back on to His priorities and His Kingdom.
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