The next morning Jesus awoke long before daybreak and went out alone into the wilderness to pray. (Mark 1:35)T

his verse is meaningful in and of itself, but like many things, it can only be really appreciated when taken in context.

Jesus got up long before daybreak to go spend time with his Father. He woke up early, showing that this was his priority. What is significant, though, is that the day before, Jesus had been healing and ministering to many people. It is doubtful that he went to bed early and got his full eight hours of sleep. It is doubtful that he made excuses to be able to sleep in a little longer, or that he told himself it was okay to miss quiet time just this once. It is doubtful, even, that he was fully awake as he walked into the wilderness as the sun peeked over the horizon to begin his quiet time. What is certain, though, is that he was driven by the importance of that time and by an awareness that he would not be able to handle the demands of the day without it. Later that day, his disciples sought him out as the people began looking for him; this day would be no easier than the last.

Jesus spent his life reaching out to people and meeting the needs of others. Without this kind of quiet time away from other people, refreshing himself in his Father's presence, I wonder how well he would have handled the pressures. How could he pour God's peace into the lives of others if that peace was not a reality in his own life?

If Jesus himself needs refreshment, we certainly do. If Jesus, with the demands of his life, was able to create space in the chaos for Sabbath time, we certainly can. And if Jesus had to wake up a little bit early to do so, we can, too. No excuses. If it's really important to you, you'll make it happen.