Mark 6 30-34

The apostles then rendezvoused with Jesus and reported on all that they had done and taught.

Jesus said, “Come off with me by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat.

So they got in the boat and went off to a remote place by themselves. Someone saw them going and the word got around. From the surrounding towns people went out on foot, running, and got there ahead of them.

When Jesus arrived, he saw this huge crowd. At the sight of them, his heart broke – like sheep with no shepherd they were. He went right to work teaching them.

Gospel Reflection

Doing God’s work does not make you God; though sometimes it is easy for the ego to think so. To imagine that nothing will be done if you are not there to do it; nothing will be right if you are not there to check it; that others will go astray if you are not there to put them on the right path.

Sometimes, it is you who need grace; sometimes the time, gentleness and understanding that you give to others you must give to yourself – in rest; in prayer; in meditation; in quiet and lonely places – trusting that the Lord will take care of all his people – including you.