Long journeys require us to take regulars breaks, to rest, take on fuel, and freshen up before we set off once more. On motorways areas for such provision are known as services. I wonder if that should help us understand (in part) why we go to church for services. But more importantly i think we all need times to step aside and rest awhile and to enjoy life.
We have already heard how Elijah took time out in the wilderness where he was provided with food and a place to sleep.
Jesus knew the value of taking time out, both for himself and for his disciples, often setting aside his gospel work, to spend time in the wilder spaces well away from towns and villages. Yet at his birth, a resting place had not been so easy to come by.
For thus says the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.”
Isaiah 30:15a
Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. And Mary gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Luke 2:4,7
The Green Tau 