The Solitary Place
For Meditation
In the beginning of this year we studied the book of Mark together, and you may remember how fast-paced it is. Unlike the other Gospel writers, Mark does very little elaboration and only includes what is absolutely necessary in his account of Jesus’ life and ministry (for example, he includes nothing about the events of Jesus’ birth). So it’s striking that at least 3 times in his short book, Mark references Jesus retreating to a “solitary place,” which is the Greek word eremos. That word can be translated desert, wilderness, deserted place, solitary place, or quiet place. There are lots of stories in all 4 Gospels about Jesus’ relationship to the eremos, which is where he goes to meet with his Father. This withdrawing to “the solitary place” appears to be a central anchoring practice in Jesus’ life. It is where he found clarity about his identity and calling, and it is where he drew power from his union and shared life with the Father.
This Sunday we’ll look at this pattern in Jesus’ life and what we can learn about our need for “the solitary place” in our own lives. Henri Nouwen wrote, "Without solitude it is virtually impossible to live a spiritual life. Solitude begins with a time and place for God, and for him alone. If we really believe not only that God exists but also that he is actively present in our lives—healing, teaching, and guiding—we need to set aside a time and space to give him our undivided attention.” In solitude, we encounter God and make space for him to address us through silence, prayer and Scripture. In solitude we also encounter ourselves, as we turn away from all our compulsions and distractions. We’ll also think about all the things that make this practice so difficult.
The practice of solitude is the secret for living a life connected with God. As you prepare for worship, consider the obstacles in your life that prevent you from having more time alone in a quiet place with full attention to God. Ask God to make you ready for more consistent time with him.
Mark 1:35–39
35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”
38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” 39 So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.