 As the incarnate Son of God, Jesus laid aside his glory and became a humble, obedient, fully human servant (Php 2:5-8). He had to deal with the very same kinds of pressures, expectations and limitations that we all do ... except at a much deeper level. And yet he was able to navigate this ministry minefield with remarkable grace and peace - never frantic, never in a hurry, never giving in to the tyranny of the urgent. How did he do it?
According to those who knew him best, Jesus "often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer" (Lk 5:16, NLT). As much as he loved the world, and as passionately devoted as he was to his world-changing mission, Jesus had no problem saying "no." Just when he had the crowds eating out of his hands, at the peak of his popularity, just when it seemed that they needed him most, Jesus routinely disappeared from the scene to commune with his Father in silence and solitude. Even the Messiah didn't have a "messiah complex."
Like Jesus, those of us who are called to serve as spiritual leaders in the body of Christ are also called to cultivate this life-saving discipline of "holy withdrawal." Personal retreats not only provide opportunities for much-needed rest, reflection and renewal, they serve as regular reminders that we are called to be ministers, not messiahs. Much like weekly Sabbath-keeping, setting aside time for personal retreats several times a year not only honors God, it may literally save our lives.
If you are sensing a fresh call from God to carve out some sacred space for a personal, spiritual retreat, you might want to start by reading the gospels. As you do, pay special attention to Jesus' holy rhythm of work and rest, engagement and withdrawal. Then reconsider the gracious invitation he extends to each of his followers: "Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me ... watch how I do it ... keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly" (Mt 11:29-30, The Message). When you've had plenty of time to ponder these words of life, you may want to read the attached articles for some practical suggestions on how to prepare for your time away with God. You will also find a number of retreat centers listed on the "Recommended Resources" page (see menu) that have a special interest in serving Christian leaders.
Finally, we want you to know that if you are looking for a place to get away with God, you are always welcome at Barclay College. Our remote, rural location on the Kansas prairie offers a unique setting where generous portions of silence and solitude are readily available. We would be glad to set aside some personal space where you can commune with God here at our "monastery on the plains." |
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