June 1: Insight Post by Kim Feld
Monday Insight Post
by Kim Feld
I have a love-hate relationship with solitude. I'm a functional extrovert, an introvert who socializes for specific purposes but needs solitude to recharge. Still, even when I crave it, quieting my thoughts enough to experience solitude with God is tough.
Reflecting on this week’s passage from Mark 1, I’m reminded of how much it challenges me. Jesus was intentional about withdrawing from the crowd and ministry to spend time alone with His Father. As shown in Mark 1, His choices were guided by His Father’s will, not by pleasing others. This time alone proved essential for His ministry. Let’s take a look:
35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”
38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” 39 So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons. Mark 1:35-39 (NIV)
Just before these verses, the text describes Jesus healing many people, including Simon’s mother-in-law. With the whole town gathered at the door and Jesus healing and casting out demons late into the evening, it’s striking that when everyone searched for Him the next morning, He was alone with God. It was during this solitude that Jesus decided to move to another town, even though He was having a tremendous impact. I imagine His disciples were shocked by this decision.
While I find this passage challenging, it emphasizes an important result of solitude: guidance. It’s nearly impossible for me to hear the quiet voice of the Holy Spirit amid constant activity. Yet, in quiet moments with an open heart, I sense Him speaking to me, often through scripture, whether as gentle correction, conviction, or encouragement. I notice that I hear Him best when I speak the least.
Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2 (NIV)
Kim Feld
Executive Director of Education and Outreach
New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
newhope.org