Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the WorldSample

First Thought

A new day dawns and Jesus starts the day alone in prayer. His popularity is growing. As ever, Jesus isn’t driven by other people’s expectations but has a clear sense of what He needs to do next and why. Prayer and purpose connect. So, Jesus moves on through Galilee. His preaching ministry continues, as do His demonstrations of power - driving out demons, healing the leper, and the paralytic. In forgiving and healing the paralyzed man Jesus openly stirs up controversy. Forgiveness of sins was the province of God alone and the teachers of the law who were present were incensed. This was blasphemy. It was also a challenge to their authority in front of a heaving crowd. But authority was indeed on display -  Jesus’ authority to do what only God can do, and the subsequent healing confirmed it. People had never seen anything like it before. 

What Does the Bible Say?

Jesus was a controversial figure. Why was He able to challenge people with such confidence? 

Living it Out

To what extent have you faced or are you willing to face controversy for being a Christian in your everyday context?

Responding in Prayer

Holy God, thank you for the gift of forgiveness of sins. I confess that I have marred your image in me (…). Forgive me and strengthen me to live the way of Jesus, especially when doing so causes conflict or controversy. Amen.