Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the WorldSample

First Thought

Controversy continues; this time because of the company Jesus keeps. Tax collectors were despised and marginalized by the Jews, seen as collaborators in the Roman occupation and morally suspect. Jesus inflamed the Pharisees, teachers of the law, by reclining around the meal table with Levi and his guests. He confidently ignored social boundaries and was seemingly unconcerned about matters of purity. Jesus practiced inclusiveness that was radically challenging to some, and powerfully hopeful to others. It was a feast. That was another bone of contention - Jesus’ disciples didn’t fast as expected nor as other disciples did. In His response to the challenge, Jesus alludes to a wedding feast where fasting would clearly not be expected, casting Himself as the bridegroom. This inclusive gathering of the newly forgiven around Jesus was a foretaste of the kingdom feast to come. This was new wine in new wineskins. Would people be willing to receive the teaching about the new thing that God was doing amongst them? 

What Does the Bible Say?

What inspires or challenges you about Jesus in this passage?

Living it Out

What is the ‘new wine’ God is pouring into your life right now? 

Responding in Prayer

God of surprises, you’re good but not tame, as C.S. Lewis described Aslan in his Narnia Chronicles. Help me embrace any new things you want to do through me in my context these days (…). Amen.