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48. Peace For A Moment!


Luke 4:13, Matthew 4:11, James 4:7-8
Key Verse: Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 
James 4:7B

The second phase of Jesus' ministry was now over.  First, Jesus was ordained for ministry at the Jordan River.  Next, He was tested, not so much for His benefit, but for ours.  We have witnessed Jesus face the temptations, common to man, that so easily entangle us.  We have seen, through Jesus, that they can be resisted.  We have learned, from Jesus, how to resist. 

Now, the third phase of Jesus' ministry is about to begin.  It is time for Him to mingle with the people, to heal all their infirmities and to teach them about the true love of God. 

Just for this moment, however, there is a pause.  Satan is defeated and has departed until a more opportune time.  For now, the angels, who love Jesus more than life itself, have come to minister to Him.  Fatigued and perhaps battle weary, it is time for Jesus to receive encouragement from those who know him well.  These angels have served Him since He created them.  Like letters from home encourage the warrior, so now, angels serve their beloved to encourage Him for His next battle. 

Jesus is not going out into the world to seek satan out for another skirmish.  He is now going to heal some of the damage that satan's rampages have left behind.  Jesus is about to enter a time in which he comes face to face with the cruelty of sin to offer His hope and love. 
Just for now, Jesus is still, enjoying a few moments peace.  He is on a retreat of sorts, allowing Himself to be refreshed and renewed. 

If Jesus, God Himself, needed such times in His life as a human on this earth, can we, mere mortals, do with less?  Isaiah says, "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength." (Is.30:15) We're not designed to be on the go, 24/7.  The need for rest was built into us.  A day of rest is commanded by the creator Himself so that we can be restored, strengthened and renewed.  In our rest, God can minister to us as the angels ministered to Jesus at this time.  Rest in Him today and let Him strengthen you for your journey. 

 Hymn: "Near to the Heart Of God" 

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