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Mark 6:31
ESV And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
NIV 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.'
NASB And He *said to them, 'Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a little while.' (For there were many people coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.)
CSB He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while." For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.
NLT Then Jesus said, 'Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.' He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.
KJV And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.

What does Mark 6:31 mean?

When Jesus travels through Galilee, preaching and performing miracles, it's common for Him to be so inundated with people that He has no time to rest. In the early days of His ministry, He has to sneak out of the house at night just to pray (Mark 1:35). When He returns to Capernaum after traveling, so many people come seeking healing that He has no chance to eat (Mark 3:20). When He does find time to take the Twelve away for some rest and training, He is exhausted to the point of falling asleep in a boat in a violent storm (Mark 4:35–41).

Now that the Twelve have gone on their own missions trip, they gain a better understanding of what Jesus goes through. They have returned from traveling around Galilee. Now, Jesus wishes to take them away from the crowds to discuss their experiences. But, once again, their return catches the attention of a mob.

We can relate to this story in our own ministries. Jesus promises that His servants will be taken care of and that the tasks He gives us will be doable if we rely on Him (Matthew 10:7–8). If we look out for and work toward the manifestation of His kingdom on earth, He will add to us whatever we need (Matthew 6:31–33).

This passage gives us a chance to consider the needs of our spiritual authorities, as well. Pastors, ministry workers, and missionaries learn how to do much with little. When we ensure our leaders are well-rested and well-provided for, we reflect the loving care that Christ gives to all His people.

Abide in Christ at all times so you have the ability to faithfully serve when the situation is challenging. Learn when you need to rest, and rely on God for support when you can't take that time. Support and encourage your ministry leaders. Take care of those who work for and with you. That is the expression of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27).
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