DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Lost Without Jesus
by Judy Webb
I admit, I have not studied the Gospel of Mark, so some background is in order. John Mark (aka Mark): he accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey. (Acts 13:13) Mark transcribed the chronicles of Peter as Peter journeyed with Jesus. Mark was the cousin of Barnabas, co-worker of Peter and Paul. The church started in John Mark’s home. This book, written primarily for the gentiles (Romans), is the shortest and most likely the first one written. Finally, all but 31 of its 660 verses are quoted in other gospels.
As we read and study this book, there is a sense of urgency, as it is quick moving. Mark doesn’t spend time on setting the scene for us but shows Jesus hitting the ground running. No small talk or backstory here. This book opens with John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus, then moves right to Jesus’ temptations in the desert, then Jesus proclaims the good news of God. Next, he calls his disciples, drives out impure spirits and begins healing many people. Mark records nineteen miracles in this gospel.
One of the first miraculous healings found in Mark was of Simon’s mother-in-law. "Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her, and she began to wait on them." (Mark 1:30-31)
Word spread fast and “that evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon possessed. The whole town gathered at the door.” (Mark 1:32-33)
It is time that we practice a similar sense of urgency. Most of us know from an experience from our past, that life can change so fast. One day we are healthy and the next a terminal diagnosis stares us in the face. That proverbial bus might come crashing down the street and, just like that, it is all over.
There is indeed an urgency to tell others about Jesus. It is always the right time to share our story, be an example to the neighbor who hasn't found their way to you. Everyone needs to have the hope that only a relationship with Jesus will provide. Today is the day, for there may not be a tomorrow.
PRAYER
Dear Jesus, give us a desire to share with someone who is on our heart. There is no feeling like the one we have when we allow you to work in us and through us to benefit someone else. Tomorrow isn't a guaranteed sure thing. Open our hearts to share and tell those near us just who you are and why that matters. It could be the difference between drowning or being saved. Amen.
