People kept coming to him

The [healed leper] went away and began to publicize the whole matter. He spread the report abroad so that it was impossible for Jesus to enter a town openly. Jesus remained outside in deserted places, and people kept coming to him from everywhere. (Mk 1:44,45)

Reflection: It may seem that Jesus ran away from the people he was sent to heal and serve. It sounds like he went to deserted places to get away from the pressure -- to escape. No, that's how WE might behave.

The intention of Jesus to go to deserted places was for prayer, for closer communion with his Father. Not to get away from the people, but to be able to better serve. They were more attracted to him because, the more he communed with his Father, the more he knew himself and his purpose.

That's why they kept coming. He was more powerful with every visit to the desert -- with every chance to clear away the noise and focus on God whom he loved above all else.

In the same way Jesus kept coming to his Father, so we must keep coming to him for renewal.

He prayed

Rising very early before dawn, he left
and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed. (Mark 1:35)

Reflection: I've always heard that a real wedding engagement requires "a ring and a date." Otherwise it's just a nice idea between two people. In spiritual terms, a real relationship between you and God requires "a time and a place." Yes, we can all pray on the go and find God "in all things." But we need that specific commitment to a real (not ideal) relationship with Christ, in the same way that he had with his Father. He liked praying early and in a place removed from distractions.

When and where do you pray? Choose a place where you can focus, and make a time happen that is regular. Keep to it and believe you can meet Him there for whatever it is you need.