“But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray” (Luke 5:16, ESV).
Shocking words! Unbelievable words! I mean, how could He? He only had a ministry span of three years. Time was ticking. He knew this. 
He just healed a man with leprosy (v. 12-13). Word about Him started to spread like wildfire. The crowds, great crowds were coming, coming, coming, gathering around Him.
And for what reason? For hearing and for healing (v. 15). They wanted to hear what this miracle man had to say. Could He be a prophet? Is this the promised Messiah?
They wanted to be healed of “their infirmities.”
And what was Jesus’ response?
He would get alone with God.
Here was a great opportunity to share the gospel. Didn’t he realize that? He said that was why He came (Luke 4:18). Here was a great opportunity to give sight to the blind. He said He came to do that too (Luke 4:18).
Yes, He realized the importance of being there with the people. However, He realized there was a place of even greater importance. He would return to the crowds, having compassion on them. But now, even with the pressing crowds, it was more important to be in the desolate place.
If you are going to save the crowds, then you must leave them for the One.
Lord willing, there will always be another opportunity to share the gospel, another sermon to preach. You will have another chance to heal people. There will always be another crowd to listen to you.
We will never be able to bear the fruit that our Father desires if we forget the source of our strength. It is out of relationship, not routine ministry, that we are able to do the works of Him who sent us while it is still day.
In your heart of hearts, would you rather be with the crowds or be in a desolate place alone with your Father? If our answer is the former, then we need get to a desolate place today and talk with Him about our heart’s desire.
(image credit: Microsoft Office)