Mark 6

Posted on Feb 16, 2017 in Bible (NT) in a Year |

Thursday

“Where did he get all this wisdom and the power to perform such miracles…He’s just a carpenter, the son of Mary…”

The people are asking a question that seems outrageous to us because we know the truth, but they were all just questioning what was happening. It was very difficult for them to believe that this “boy” that grew up with them, that had a family still living in Nazareth, could possibly be the Messiah or even a great prophet or teacher. He was from “common folk” from a humble background… a carpenter’s son, there was nothing special here. But yet he has great wisdom, he has the gift to heal people, where could these abilities possibly come from? And Jesus was “amazed at their unbelief.”

When I read the bible, I often try to put myself into the story. What would I believe? Would I see Jesus for who He truly is, the Son of God? Or would I be with the people of the city, scoffing at Him for His presumptuous attitude? Even to today, many people hear His message, see the work of the Holy Spirit, and yet, scoff at what it all means. Many will pay the cost of not believing.

Look at Herod in our reading today. Herod is haunted by what he allowed to have happen to John the Baptist. Influences from others can have a big effect on the way we look at things. Who are you surrounding yourself with – people who will help you, or people who lead you on the road to destruction.

Jesus also realizes that he needs to train up leaders to take over sharing the gospel. It is a mission that we are all called to do, but some have been tasked with greater responsibilities. So Jesus sends out the twelve disciples. They are told not to take anything with them except a walking stick.  They could take sandals, but they were not allowed, money, change of clothes or food. In this way they were totally reliant upon God for their provisions. Their faith was being strengthened. Do you remember when Jesus told them in the Sermon on the Mount, not to worry about what tomorrow may bring, what to eat, what to wear, etc? (Matt 6:24-34) This is putting action to your faith. He also allowed them to travel in teams of two, for support and encouragement and they were successful.

We have never been called to be a Christian on our own. We have been given many people to help us along the way. To walk beside us. God knows our every need and He supplies us with all that we need. I would challenge you to take an accurate assessment today of what you have and what you need and see where you stand. Are you focusing more on what you don’t have, or are you thankful for what you do have? Are you being obedient to the Will of God and faithful to His calling? When you find your life is in a mess, look at where you our out of balance.

My prayer today is for those who find their life in chaos and I pray for clarity of direction to help get back on track.

Being faithful to the call

Pastor Kathy