In Every Moment

“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” Mark 1:35 (NIV).

In Mark’s Gospel, we get a glimpse into one day of Jesus’ life — and if it seems packed, that’s because it was. Teaching, healing, casting out demons—it was essentially a regular day in His ministry. And what strikes us is not just what He did, but how He did it—with unwavering focus, with steady power, with perfect compassion. He teaches in the synagogue, and His words carry authority that amazes everyone (Mark 1:21-22). He casts out an unclean spirit, and His fame spreads through Galilee (Mark 1:23-28).

And just when it might seem time to rest—He has done more than enough— Jesus arrives at Simon and Andrew’s house to find Simon’s mother-in-law sick, and without hesitation, He heals her too (Mark 1:29-31). And even when it seems like the day has been plenty long, the whole city gathers at His door, waiting for healing and freedom, and Jesus pours out more of Himself (Mark 1:32-34).

How did He do it? How did He manage so many needs without rushing or burning out? How did He continue to serve and love, giving out grace and joy instead of frustration or exhaustion?

The answer lies in Mark 1:35(NIV): “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.” After a demanding day, He could have justifiably slept in and recharged to continue His work. But instead, Jesus goes to His Father, before the world awakens and before any demands of the day pull at Him. He withdraws because, more than sleep or physical rest, He needs the presence and strength of His Father. Intimacy with His Father wasn’t optional—it was foundational. His purpose, focus, and peace were all rooted in His time with the Father. Then, Jesus knew exactly how to face a new day filled with people and events and how to respond to every challenge (Mark 1:38).

Close communion with God it’s not something Jesus tried to fit into the gaps of His schedule. It was essential—life-sustaining and non-negotiable. It was a priority of infinite worth. Solitude with the Father was the rhythm of His life. And if it was true for Him, how much more vital is it for us?

God is calling us to the same unwavering pursuit, to not settle for anything less than Himself. He offers us strength for the day ahead, guidance for each moment, and a deep awareness of His will. It’s in these quiet, holy places that our souls are refreshed and renewed, even after busy days of ministry and service. Only there can we gain the eyes to see as Jesus sees, the love to love as He loves, and the strength to do what He calls us to do, no matter how impossible it may seem.

May we not lose sight of this: the greatest gift God gives us is Himself. And in seeking Him, we find the grace to walk in His purposes, filled with His joy and empowered by His Spirit to do His will.

Fix your gaze on Christ first thing in the morning, and He will accompany you throughout the day.

“Lord, I need You every second and minute! I desire only one thing—to dwell in Your presence every day of my life, to meditate on You, to know Your heart, Your ways, and Your will. I give You myself, my hopes, my fears, my doubts, my entire life, all my circumstances, responsibilities, ministry, work, joys, and sorrows. Lord, I want to be one with You; I desperately need You and long to experience Your presence always. Amen.”