A Return to Prayer

Returning to the Place of Prayer
Pastor Calvin Cook
May 16,2025

Scripture: Mark 1:35–39

“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed…” (Mark 1:35)

In a world that constantly pulls us in every direction, where the demand of life never seem to stop, we find Jesus doing something consistent: withdrawing to pray.

Even after healing crowds and casting out demons the night before, Jesus did not sleep in. He rose very early, while it was still dark, and intentionally sought a desolate place—not for isolation, but for connection with His Father. Before the next box to check off, or thing to do,the next town,He made space for what mattered most: prayer.

Simon and the others eventually find Him, they seem frustrated that Jesus slipped away when “everyone is looking for you.” But Jesus doesn’t rush back to the crowds. His response reveals something deeper—clarity and purpose that came from prayer: “Let us go on…for that is why I came.”

This moment reminds us that prayer is not a luxury or practiced in an at-need way. It is a necessity. It centers us in God’s will, anchors us in our calling, and prepares us for what’s next.

I am asking this morning: are we praying for what will guide us to fulfill the mission of the church, and all of God’s called? Or are our prayers – me prayers ?

Some Questions to reflect on today:
• Have I made space lately for prayer that isn’t hurried or half-hearted?
• What might God be trying to reveal to me in the quiet place?
• Am I looking to others to direct my steps—or to God in prayer?

Let us return—not just once, but continually—to the place of prayer. In the hidden, quiet moments, God refines our hearts, renews our strength, and reminds us who we are and why we’ve been sent.

Prayer:
Lord, draw me back to the quiet place. Teach me to rise and seek You first. Help me to become consistent in prayer, not out of duty, but because I long to know Your voice and follow Your will.