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Vacation  – Time for relaxation and renewal of your spirit, mind, body, and soul!

Scripture: (Mark 6:30-32 NIV) 30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”  32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.

In the bible, Mark 6:30-44 covers when Jesus, along with his disciples, feeds the five thousand people.  Just before that, the disciples had come to Jesus and reported what they had done and taught.  Jesus saw they were tired and weary and had worked so diligently that they didn’t even have time to eat, so he ordered them to “Come with me,” to a quiet place for rest. Even Jesus taught his disciples it was important for them to take a vacation.  We can learn some key things from the bible. First, we should take Jesus with us and include him in everything we do, even on vacation.  Second, the disciples went away to a quiet place.  The main purpose was for them to rest and renew their strength.

Likewise, we too often become so overwhelmed and overloaded with life’s duties (school, jobs, kids, church, etc.) that we need to take some time for ourselves for refreshing and renewal.  We work very hard throughout the year and need to make time for fun, rest, and relaxation to rejuvenate ourselves and our families.  

I was blessed this year to travel with a dear friend to Mexico via Carnival Cruise ship last week.  We had a fabulous time and enjoyed one another’s company while we relaxed and had fun.  We visited a private resort, relaxed on the white sandy beaches, kayaked, and swam in the beautiful ocean waters. 

We parasailed above the ocean floor overlooking the beaches and the island below.  Yes, I was screaming at the top of my lungs first, but then took a deep breath and just enjoyed what a beautiful world the Lord has made.  We also got the chance to snorkel (truthfully, my friend snorkeled and got to see thousands of beautiful tropical fish…I gave up after a few failed tries at incorrect breathing techniques, lol). However, I did float and relax in the ocean nearby.  

We were ultimately just grateful to relax aboard the ship and take frequent naps on the beach chairs breathing in the fresh air.  I thank God also for allowing us to witness a sign of his promise, “a rainbow”, how beautiful!

 What a great vacation!

 

Our God is definitely “THE CREATOR” and master architect.

 I am awed by the wonders and beauty of this earth. 

I am so thankful that He created everything

perfectly and beautifully and for “US”.

 

 
I hope that you have a great vacation this year too and don’t forget to take Jesus with you and thank him for everything you get to see and do.  Also, don’t forget in the midst of all the fun to take some quiet time for rest and relaxation and come back home refreshed and renewed!
 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for vacation time when we can rest and renew our strength. Help us to remember to include you in everything we do! Amen.