Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the WorldSample

First Thought 

Mark ends with unusual abruptness. Views vary on whether Mark intended to finish at verse 8, whether he was unable to finish it for some reason, or whether his original ending has been lost in transmission. It’s generally agreed, though, that the earliest recoverable form of Mark’s Gospel ends at 16:8 and that 16:9–20 isn’t from the same author. Five different endings to Mark’s Gospel have been preserved. In the longest (16:9–20), which appears in most manuscripts, we hear echoes of the other Gospels. Mary Magdalene is reported to be amongst the first witnesses. Jesus’ appearance to the two travelers suggests the encounter with Him on the road to Emmaus. His appearance to the Eleven recalls the disciples wrestling with doubt. And there are obvious echoes with Matthew’s great commission and Luke’s account of the ascension. So, what’s the invitation to us as we end this journey through Mark’s Gospel? At heart, it’s an invitation to trust – in Jesus the Nazarene who was crucified, died, and was buried. Death could not hold Him, and He rose to glorious life. His kingdom has come. One day, it will come in all its fullness.   

What Does the Bible Say?

What have you learned about Jesus from Mark’s Gospel? 

Living it Out

In what ways are you learning to trust Jesus in your context? 

Responding in Prayer

Loving God, I praise you for Jesus and His good news that the kingdom of God has come. Help me live in the way of Jesus and in the sure hope of resurrection life and power in my context these days (…). Amen.