Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the WorldSample

Introduction

In one succinct sentence, Mark trumpets his excitement: ‘I’ve such great news to share. It’s about Jesus.’ The Greek word for ‘gospel’ is euangelion, good news, and was commonly used in the first century to herald news that should be celebrated. It was also an Old Testament word used by the prophets to announce the liberation of God’s people from exile. 

Mark was bursting to help people grasp the radical new thing God was doing. The Messiah, the long-hoped-for deliverer of God’s people, had come. Jesus of Nazareth would confound their expectations. He would change the course of human history forever. 

Mark’s Gospel isn’t only a good news announcement. It’s also an ancient form of biography. This kind of writing was intended to instruct readers about someone worth imitating, learning from, and following.

So, as you make your way through Mark’s Gospel, pray the Spirit will help you see Jesus afresh and deepen your wonder at God at work in the world. And ponder… what are the implications for you today?

Each day, there’s a ‘First Thought’ to stimulate your own, a question from the day’s passage to chew over, a prompt to consider your response in your context, and a short prayer to conclude. Wherever you see (…), that’s an invitation for you to add your own personal prayer.

As you begin this journey, take a moment to consider Jesus. Who is Jesus for you today? 

Then pray,
Gracious God, these are my hopes for this journey (…). Open my eyes to see Jesus afresh through your Word by your Spirit. Help me learn to live His ways in my world today. Amen.