Many birds need an escape from winter’s distress.

Wind, storms, and cold make foraging for food difficult. Many birds — including some doves — fly toward warmer climates.

If you’ve ever felt the burning desire to run away, to escape, to fly to a restful place, you are in good company. Elijah ran away from evil rulers. Jacob ran away from his angry brother. Moses ran away from Egypt. For years, David ran away from his best friend’s father, Saul. Sometimes, we too need rest from the chaos around us.

Even Jesus did. Some moments He sought out time alone with His Father. He was often inundated with crowds, questions, and expectations. He needed time away. Sometimes, He left physically. He walked up a mountain or stayed ashore while His friends went ahead. Other times, He stayed where He was, but He nestled under the Father’s wings in prayer.

However, migration is a two-way flight. What goes away must come back. Jesus always returned. Birds always find their way back home.

Don’t be ashamed to want rest. If you can, escape to a quiet place. If you can’t physically leave, bury yourself in prayer. Then once you are filled, return with new peace to share.