Jesus said, “Have the people recline.” John 6:10
It was a miracle, of course, that Jesus took those five loaves and two fishes and fed thousands. But it was also meaningful that he urged people to recline. Passover was near, and surely at least some of those in attendance realized the significance. In ancient times, reclining was something free people, not slaves or servants, did. When the crowd and the disciples stopped milling about, Jesus acted.
Even on the Sabbath, it’s easy for us to get caught up in activity—a text to send, plans for the coming week to preview, laundry to do. But if we stop even for a few minutes today and rest with Jesus instead of being slaves to work or others, he will act in us.
Jesus, help me to rest my mind and be ready to serve only you today.
Melanie Rigney
Originally published July 25, 2021
