MARK 1:35-39
Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. Later Simon and the others went out to find him. When they found him, they said, “Everyone is looking for you.”
Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. Later Simon and the others went out to find him. When they found him, they said, “Everyone is looking for you.”
But Jesus replied, “We must go on to other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came.” So he traveled throughout the region of Galilee, preaching in the synagogues and casting out demons.
Unpleasant Boundaries and the Open Door
Saying no to people isn’t easy. Often it gets us in trouble, especially in controlling and high expectation relationships.
I wonder how the people Jesus walked away from responded. It must have been some time after sunrise when the disciples finally found Jesus. By now, people were waiting in town. They had sick. They had questions. They had needs! But no Messiah.
Jesus said no twice that morning. First, he said, “No, I’m not spending time with you, I’m spending time with my Father.” Then he said to their expectations for attention and help, “No, I’m done investing in you, now I’m going to invest in others.”
Yikes! I can stomach the first. I know my place compared to God. But weighed against folks in the next town, come on! Your work with me and my neighbors isn’t finished yet, Jesus. Why, it might take a few months, years even, to take care of me and mine. Then, perhaps, you can move on.
One of the unfortunate realities of living in a time bound existence, every “Yes” said to one person is a “no” to another, and visa versa. To spend time with my wife, children – anyone, I have no choice but to say “no” to the demands and expectations of others.
“No” is a boundary that opens doors of important opportunity.
If I am to pursue the kind of relationship with God that I need, I will need the resolve to say “no” enough times that time is set aside for fostering this relationship. As important, if I am to make sure to nurture the most important human relationships and help those to whom God has called me, I will also say “no” countless times. And with every no comes the risk of offense, confusion, anger, and misunderstanding.
The only alternative is to be controlled by the loudest voices and strongest or most controlling personalities. I am glad Jesus wasn’t.
Father, grant me the strength to say “no” whenever and to whomever I need, in order to fulfill the priorities and purposes to which you call me.
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