Pouring Out and Pulling Back

At the end of a long week, what I look forward to most are the precious couple of hours I get with my family on Friday nights. They've become a needed reprieve as activities, responsibilities, and involvement have steadily increased over time.

For many of us, by the week's end, we’re spent. For some, it's physical exhaustion. For others, it's the mental toll of stressful situations. And for some, it’s something even deeper — the emotional strain of just trying to keep going, or maybe just trying to get along.

Lately, my actions have been very deliberate. I’ve chosen them. And I wouldn’t trade out a single one, individually. Each of them is aligned with the mission I’ve committed to live out in my work and in my life.

But collectively? They have a way of wearing me out.

And yet, pouring out, in my opinion, is what we’re meant to do. These efforts aren’t wasted — they’re purposeful. They’re part of something greater. But we must also remember to take our pull backs in an orderly, intentional fashion or we risk burning out entirely.

Jesus knew this. And He modeled it perfectly.

Let’s look at an example from Mark 6:30–32:

“The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’ So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.”

So, what's the context here?
The disciples had just returned from being sent out two-by-two to preach, heal, and cast out demons. They were spent — physically, emotionally, spiritually. Jesus Himself had just received the news that John the Baptist, His cousin, had been executed. The weight of ministry, grief, and fatigue was real.

And what does Jesus do?
He doesn’t say, “Let’s push through,” or “There’s still more to do.”
Instead, He says, “Come with me. Let’s rest.”

Not “Go rest” but “Come with me.” He invites them to pull back with Him...Not in isolation, but in relationship. To be in peace. In quiet. Together.

That’s not just leadership — that’s love. That’s family. That’s the voice of someone who understands the deep human need for connection and restoration after seasons of pouring out.

So today, as we reach another Friday night, I want to pat you on the back for the work you've poured yourself into this week. I congratulate you on the good you’ve done, the effort you’ve given, and the energy you’ve spent with purpose.

Now I encourage you: pull back. Even if it’s only for a little while.
Spend time with your family, with those you love most. Let it refill you.

Our leader in Christ showed us how to do it —
Let’s follow Him in that way, too.

-Mark