From the Deacon's Desk

Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase inspired by the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.

At daybreak Jesus left and went to a deserted place. (Luke 4:38-44)

DESERTED PLACE: This is not the only time we hear of Jesus going off by himself. With the public life He was living, He was always “on.” People demanded so much from Him and He recognized how important it was that He respond to their needs. They were, after all, “like sheep without a shepherd.”  

Jesus recognized His own needs as well. Sometimes He just needed to get away – to gather His thoughts, to reflect, to mourn, and to pray. He was expressing His humanity and setting an example for us. After all, if it’s good enough for Jesus, it’s good enough for us.  

Solitude is underrated. It offers us time away from all of the distractions of life. We can focus on ourselves, calm ourselves, and clear our minds. We can reflect on things we have done or are considering doing.  

And, of course, we can pray. We can have open and honest, one-on-one conversations with God. The peace and quiet that comes with solitude will also allow us to hear God’s response.