A lifestyle magazine recently published a Q&A session that explored a day in the life of a successful mommy blogger. Readers gathered tips on how she tackles homework, runs a business, fits in workouts, preps for meals, and romances her husband (Tuesday nights, 9:30 sharp!), doing all-the-things without ever skipping a beat, coming up for air, or losing control.

But when the magazine asked, “What is your one weakness?” she said, “I lack warmth. Friends and family say I’m distant.” How could this be? Here she keeps her life humming like a well-oiled machine, yet struggles to maintain healthy rhythms and meaningful connections.

Jesus understands more than anybody how quickly our efficiently-run lives—no matter how heroic, noble, and virtuous—can rob us of the one thing our soul craves: intimacy with others, but more importantly, intimacy with Him.

Yes in Mark 6:30-31, the apostles excitedly gathered around Jesus to fill Him in on all they’ve accomplished. Incredible things too, like healing sick people and casting out demons. And instead of replying, “Well done! Do more! Start again!” Jesus said, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place . . .”

You see, Jesus was far more interested in redirecting their focus on Him, not on the day’s successes. He was far more concerned about setting into motion rhythms of intimacy with Him, affection for Him, total dependence on Him, and restoration only found in Him—not on what they could do for Him.

So as summer turns into fall and our Anchored Press Devotional Planners overflow with appointments and activities, let’s pause at the turn of each page and be women who fall into a daily rhythm of warming ourselves in the presence of Jesus. Then we’ll reflect His heart more effectively to the world around us and hear Him say, “Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway” (Proverbs 8:34).

What will your rhythm look like this season?

Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.
MARK 6:31B NIV