I continue to be blessed by time spent immersing myself in God's word. This morning we began our study of the first gospel, the Gospel of Mark. Here are my impressions of what this awesome word shares with us:
The Gospel of Mark is believed to be the first written of all the gospels. It is believed to have been written by the young disciple, John Mark. It is the shortest of the gospels, but believed to be a primer for new believers, especially those coming from the Jewish faith. Evidence of this is found early, as Mark begins with a prophetic word from Isaiah preparing the way for John the Baptist to prepare the way of the Messiah. Quoting Isaiah's words that the way should be prepared and made ready for the Lord's anointed, John comes and begins his ministry of baptizing and preaching his simple but powerful message urging repentance of sins. His message struck a chord with many as Mark says the entire region presented themselves for this baptism. John also teaches that one coming after him would be powerful and he, John, was not worthy to untie his sandals. This coming Messiah would baptize with the Holy Spirit.
Mark shares how Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and presents Himself for baptism by John in the River Jordan. As He emerges from the water, a heavenly proclamation calls Jesus, "Son," and one in "who I am well pleased." From there, Mark says that Jesus goes into the desert to be tempted for forty days, and comes back to begin his public ministry with a call to disciples to follow Him.
Mark shares Jesus' invitation to all who would listen as simple, yet powerful: "The time has come; the kingdom of God is near, repent and believe the good news."
The first disciples called are Simon (Peter) and his brother, Andrew, who answer Jesus' call to "Come, follow me." Later, Mark has Jesus calling James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who immediately respond to Jesus' call.
Jesus' ministry is marked by His amazing teaching, for He was one who taught with authority, as many of those who heard Him proclaimed. He also touched many by His ability to drive out demons and evil spirits, including the first who asked Jesus, "What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are -- the Holy One of God!" Jesus also healed many of their illnesses and infirmities, starting with the healing of Simon's mother-in-law.
Jesus was a man of prayer, who sought out quiet places during the morning, using the time to connect with God. Mark's early account of this says that even during His prayer time, He was sought out by those needing Jesus' blessings. This motivated Him to leave that place to begin a ministry of preaching, teaching, and healing in other areas.
Jesus was a man of love and compassion, so much so, that the first leper healed, was touched by Jesus. This was something unheard of, nor expected. Jesus instructs the man to tell no one. The man does the opposite and goes and tells all he can of what Jesus has done for him. We do not have that same call upon our life, John Wesley wrote; "We should broadcast it far and wide all that Jesus has done for us." And indeed, that is so.
MARK MY WORDS PRAYER: Jesus, You are the Messiah, and I want to follow You. You are the Healer, and I want to be healed by You. You are He who drives out evil; let me say goodbye and good riddance to the evil in me. In Your name I pray, amen.
