Who needs this desert-place-rest?
The infant soul, fresh in its spiritual life, needs this solitude. Far from the contentious babble and worldly din, might it not feed on the wondrous works performed by Christ on its behalf? In such quietude, may it not craft a broader, deeper, more sufficient understanding of the very essence of one-sided grace? Might its gratitude mature, and become both more discerning and humbler? With no mortal or material thing to distract it, can the newborn babe in Christ peacefully and wholeheartedly pledge its devotion to the Savior?
Is it not the preacher, the missionary of the Cross, who needs such rest? In this solitude, might he not ponder the vastness, enormity, depth, and sublime majesty of that great, unbounded gospel he is called to preach? Might he not grasp the Grace of Christ and allow it, in turn, to seize him? In this solitary place, may the gospel not become even more his own treasure and exceeding joy? Thus, his words will flow forth from the wealth of his spirit.
Is it not the green in life, the ones ablaze in the strength of youth who also need this respite? As they traverse the tumultuous terrain of life, are they not also called to seek moments of silence? Amidst the whirlwind of their dreams and striving, do they not need a hideaway to pause and reflect? Do not their hearts beat in harmony with the pulsing rhythms of their age? Do they need, not strength, but wisdom? Is there a place to go where they may ponder the wonders of God's creation, and listen to His still, small voice? Do they not need time to discern the path He has set for them in the morning of their days? Where the Blessed Spirit tills their soiled hearts, which allows the seeds of repentance, faith, and wisdom to be sown in the fertile ground of their young hearts?
Is it, not the one old in years who needs this solitude? Those who, in their twilight days, find a quiet retreat, to reflect. To retrace sin and grace, law and gospel, darkness and light in their life. To remember the time the Savior first saved them, and count the numberless times since that He found them again, and saved them again. A quiet place to walk old paths, revisit lessons learned, and savor the echoes of divine whisperings. Where they can meditate upon the deep mysteries of God's sovereign plan, the Love of God, God in Christ, substitutionary atonement, justification by faith alone, and, prepare for the final journey home. They can at least begin to form that final and most fervent prayer here below. A prayer of gratitude for the redemption that has bought them, grace that has sustained them, and of a humble petition for that final grace to finish the race with patience and faith.
Is it, not every believer who needs this solitude? Do we, not each desire to shake off the layered filth of worldly matters and sin? Waiting upon the Lord, might we not replenish our strength? Oh, a fresh visit from the Holy One might render us both wise and holy.
Ask, then, of yourself: Is it my desire, my pleasure, to come apart into a desert place, and rest a while in Jesus?