"Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself... And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone" -- Matthew 14:13, 23

In our western culture social interaction has become overwhelming. There never seems to be a quiet moment to be found. We go from meetings to celebrations to games to parties to community events with little time between. Most of us are constantly surrounded by people, from family members to church members. Many of us actually choose this lifestyle because we don't know how to deal with extended quiet moments. Is there any value in being alone?

Jesus had just heard about the death of his cousin John the Baptist. He was grieved over the death and sought a quiet place to be alone and pray. When pressed by the crowds he responded with gracious compassion. Yet, when this ministry was completed, the Lord slipped away by himself to pray. Jesus knew the value of quiet time with his Father.

I am sure that you have heard the phrase "take time to smell the roses". But we need to do far more than "smell the roses". Spiritual health needs quiet time to reflect and commune with the Lord. We need time to rest and seek His face with our joys and sorrows. As the Lord sought time to be alone, be encouraged my friend, and make time to be alone with God.