Finding Rest Amid the Harvest: A Lesson from Mark 6

by Jim Nelson, FCFI board member

As the harvest season comes to a close, we’ve been blessed with an extraordinary stretch of favorable weather. I can’t recall a time when we’ve had so many consecutive days perfect for harvesting. With so many productive days back-to-back, it’s wise to step back occasionally and take a moment to consider Biblical rest.

This reminds me of a story from the Bible, found in Mark 6. Jesus and His disciples had been tirelessly ministering for days. Jesus had sent the disciples out to preach, heal, and cast out demons in the nearby towns. When they returned, He recognized their need for rest and said, “You’ve been working hard; let’s go to a remote place and rest for a while.” As they headed to a desolate area, the people saw them and followed, leading to the well-known miracle where Jesus fed 5,000 men, with the crowd likely totaling around 15,000 people.

The disciples, exhausted from their work, found themselves serving this enormous crowd. Afterward, Jesus directed them to sail across the sea while He went to a secluded place to pray. Although they were following Jesus’ instructions, they encountered fierce winds that made progress nearly impossible. Even while doing exactly what He had asked, they struggled.

In Mark 6:48, there’s an interesting phrase: “Jesus intended to pass them by.” When I came across this verse a few years ago, it resonated with me. It’s a reminder that even when we’re faithfully carrying out God’s will—whether it’s harvesting crops, taking care of our families, or serving in our communities—challenges will arise. There may be breakdowns, delays, or simply exhaustion. Without calling out to Jesus, we risk rowing endlessly against the wind.

Jesus desires to help and protect us. When the disciples saw Him walking on the water (though they initially thought He was a ghost), He immediately came to their boat and calmed the storm. As we continue through this last phase of the harvest, let’s not neglect reaching out to Jesus, whether it’s through morning prayers or evening reflections. Our relationship with Christ is more important than being the first to finish harvesting.

I pray that your harvest continues smoothly, free from significant disruptions and that you find space for the abundant crop this year.