TODAY IN THE WORD

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 1:1-13
I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. - Mark 1:8
TODAY IN THE WORD
With its loud roar and impressive mane, the lion is a fascinating species. How much do you know about this 'king of beasts'?

In size, male lions can be as large as eight feet long, four feet high at the shoulder, and 550 pounds in weight. Lions live in family units called 'prides,' which may have 4-37 members. The females do most of the hunting, usually in the evenings. They pursue such animals as giraffes or zebras at speeds of about 35 miles per hour. And a lion's roar can be heard nearly six miles away!

It may seem strange to you that we've gone into this much detail about an animal. but it's important that we know about the lion because it is a traditional symbol of the Gospel of Mark, our focus for study this month. The lion represents the strength and power of the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5), who is Jesus Christ, and the arrival of His kingdom.

According to early church tradition, the author of Mark is John Mark, a cousin of Barnabas who accompanied him and Paul on part of their first missionary journey (see Acts 12:25). This Gospel is based on the preaching of Peter and was probably written in Rome during the last days of the apostle's life.

Since it was originally intended to be read by the suffering Roman church, Mark's themes include persecution, the cost of discipleship, and servanthood. As you study with us this month, you'll also find that a straightforward style, vivid narrative, and constant action characterize the Mark's Gospel.

As the book opens, John the Baptist is calling on Israel to repent from sin. The heart of his message is that a greater One will follow him (Mark 1:7-8).

In verse 9 we find that that person is Jesus of Nazareth. John baptizes Him, not because Jesus needed to repent of sin, but as a public affirmation of the Messiah. The entire Trinity is involved the Son is baptized, the Father speaks from heaven, and the Spirit descends like a dove. The gospel story has begun!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The first verse of the book of Mark announces 'the beginning of the gospel.' Do you understand and believe the gospel message, the 'good news' of Jesus Christ? He loves you and died to save you from the penalty of sin death. If you believe this truth, you are a child of God!

If you are not sure or have not yet become a follower of Christ, don't delay! Accept Him as your Savior today. You might say a prayer similar to this: 'Dear God, I know I'm a sinner and deserve death. But I believe you love me and sent your Son to die in my place. I accept your gift of eternal life and ask Jesus to live in me as my Savior and Lord.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 1:14-45
'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will make you fishers of men. -
TODAY IN THE WORD
In Brazil, more than 15ꯠ mothers in 600 local churches are praying their children to the mission field!

Founder Ana Maria Pereira believed that Brazilian moms would be eager to join together to pray for the salvation and future ministry of their children. She was right. Since 1995, the 'Wake Up Deborah' movement has grown rapidly. Participants promise to pray 15 minutes daily that their children will trust Christ and take the gospel to unreached people groups. Says Pereira: 'No one prays for a child like Mom!'

Christ's call to follow Him and become 'fishers of men' can come in many forms the prayers of these mothers are a beautiful example.

After His baptism, Jesus began a ministry of public preaching and called His first disciples Simon Peter, Andrew, James and John. Because these disciples were fishermen, Jesus used a familiar metaphor from their daily lives, inviting them to join Him in the work of 'fishing' for souls (v. 17). They obeyed immediately, leaving what they were doing to follow Him.

As Jesus preaches that the kingdom is near, His reputation spreads and grows. People can see for themselves that His words and actions have divine power He casts out demons and heals a leper and many others. Clearly, His authority comes from God, but at this time He does not allow the demons to speak (v. 25), nor the ex-leper (v. 44). Why? It is not yet time for Him to be fully revealed. God's plan would unfold in its own time.

In today's reading Jesus displays both His power, and His compassion (v. 41). Jesus was not a power-hungry rabbi or a calculating politician, but the incarnate Lord sent to love and heal suffering people.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
In the midst of a busy and powerful ministry, Jesus made it a point to withdraw for special times of prayer (v. 35). If our Lord needed to do so, how much more do we!

Take some time today to do a self-check on your prayer life. Are you spending regular, intimate time with God? Are you balancing praise, confession, and petition? Do you use a prayer list, a prayer journal, or another tool? Do you look forward to times of prayer, or dread them as a duty?

Ask the Holy Spirit to create a new hunger for prayer in your daily life.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 2:1-22
It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners. - Mark 2:17
TODAY IN THE WORD
The United States government is based on an intricate, three-way balance of power set up in our Constitution. Congress is responsible to make the laws, the President to enforce them, and the Supreme Court to interpret them.

Theoretically, each branch of government has its own set of powers, as well as a way to hold the other branches accountable. This is called a system of 'checks and balances.' While each part of the government has authority, no single part has absolute power.

God's authority, on the other hand, is absolute. No one holds Him accountable, there is no need for 'checks and balances,' because He is perfect.

When Jesus appeared on earth wielding the authority of God, He amazed and offended those who thought of Him as merely human. In fact, we could say that the Gospel of Mark is the story of Jesus revealing His divine identity and authority bit by bit until the evidence is overwhelming.

We find an example of this in the case of the paralytic. When friends lowered the paralytic through the roof into the room where Jesus was speaking, everyone expected a physical healing. And Jesus did heal the man, but first He forgave the man's sins. The teachers of the law understood that, in doing this, Jesus was claiming God's authority after all, only God can forgive sins but they could say nothing in the face of Jesus' self-evident power.

The religious leaders already opposed Jesus at this early time in His ministry. He was criticized for eating meals with sinners, a gesture of intimate fellowship to which no Pharisee would stoop. Jesus, on the other hand, had come to search out and save those who were lost.

The Pharisees also complained that Jesus' disciples didn't fast. To this, Jesus responds that His coming is a reason for rejoicing, not grieving (v. 19), though even this early He is hinting that He will be taken away before too long (v. 20). The Divine Bridegroom had arrived, but the Pharisees refused to recognize His identity or authority.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Studying any of the four Gospels takes us back to the basics. How? As Christians we are to be 'little Christs' and what better source of information than a biography of Christ? In studying the life of our Lord we find a pattern for our own lives.

In this spirit, we'd like to suggest that you keep a running list of the attributes of Christ observed during this month's study. For example, from today's reading you might jot down 'healer,' 'authority from God,' or 'cares for spiritual needs,' among other possibilities. Add to your list with each day's reading.

By the end of the month, you'll have a list of qualities from Jesus' life that is sure to challenge you to more Christ-like living.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 2:23-3:12
The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath. - Mark 2:28
TODAY IN THE WORD
Does it ever seem as though computers are more trouble than they're worth?

That wasn't the original idea! Computers are supposed to make our jobs easier and faster, lead to a 'paperless office,' and make the 'information superhighway' available to all. Instead, we find ourselves waiting while the computer crashes and re-boots, examining software manuals for solutions to problems, and wondering why that word processor file we saved yesterday seems to have disappeared.

The personal computer, touted as the 'great time-saver' for the average person, has in some ways become the 'great time-waster.' What is meant to be a tool for our needs sometimes becomes a demanding, controlling force.

That's exactly what had happened to the Sabbath in Jesus' day. The Pharisees had made Sabbath regulations that ignored God's original purpose in ordaining a day of rest (see Exo. 20:8-11) and instead focused on nit-picky, external standards.

When the religious leaders criticized Jesus for allowing His disciples to 'work' on the Sabbath, He refuted the leaders by appealing to an episode from David's life (see 1 Sam. 21:1-6). The point is simple: the spirit rather than the letter of the law is what is important. When we become legalistic, we turn what was intended for our internal spiritual good into a meaningless external straitjacket.

And we should remember that God is the best and only interpreter of His own laws! That's part of what Jesus has in mind when he asserts His authority as Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:28).

Jesus follows up His teaching with a Sabbath healing designed to prove the same points concerning legalism and His Lordship. Although His enemies are already plotting to kill Him (3:6), Jesus cares for them to the point of being distressed about their stubborn hearts (3:5).

Here is still more evidence that Jesus is God, for only divine love reaches out to enemies (see Luke 6:27-28). How tragic that the Pharisees could not see what even the demons knew (Mark 3:11)!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
One month of devotions in Mark certainly can't exhaust all of the knowledge to be gleaned from this book!

Today, we encourage you to do additional Bible study on the topic of the Sabbath. A concordance is helpful in this type of study. Many study Bibles contain brief concordances, and you can try to find complete concordances in your church library or at any Christian bookstore.

While you study, here are some questions to ask yourself: What does the Bible teach about the Sabbath and rest? What is the Old Testament background for Jesus' teaching in today's reading? What meaning does the New Testament give the Sabbath? What principles can we apply to our lives today?

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 3:13-35
Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother. - Mark 3:35
TODAY IN THE WORD
Just north of Moody Bible Institute's main Chicago campus is one of the world's most prestigious private libraries, the Newberry Library. Behind its imposing brown stone walls lies an impressive collection of books, manuscripts, and memorabilia. Every year the library is visited by numerous scholars and students doing research.

But this library isn't just for academics. On a Saturday morning many ordinary people can be found doing personal research into their family histories. The Newberry Library is one of the best-known genealogical research centers in the country, and many people spend time there to trace their family trees as far back as possible.

Why? Because families are important to our sense of identity who we are, where we're going. In today's reading, Jesus uses His own family to teach an important lesson about discipleship.

He begins by choosing twelve disciples from among those following Him. He plans to train them in the principles of His kingdom and to send them out as representatives of His message, power, and authority.

In the wake of this choosing, or commissioning, Jesus' authority comes into question once again. The religious leaders accuse Him of using Satan's power, even implying that He might be possessed. Jesus argues that their accusation is a logical contradiction, not to mention blasphemous (v. 29). How can Satan's power be used against Satan? Only God's power can overcome Satan; so if Jesus casts out demons, His power can only come from one Source!

Jesus' family, on the other hand, believes He is merely crazy and comes to take charge of Him. He seizes this opportunity to teach the key principle of discipleship found in today's verse. This truth may be difficult, since it shows that allegiance to God must be above all others, even close family ties. But this truth is also encouraging: if we are obedient to God's will, He considers us to be members of His own family!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
We hope that you are excited by these first five days of studying the life of Christ. We serve a great Savior! We know He understands everything about us, because He became human an amazing truth that should prompt a response of praise.

In fact, in your personal or family worship this week, why not plan a special time of music focused on praising Christ? You might sing hymns or choruses such as 'Jesus Is All The World to Me,' 'I Love You, Lord,' 'All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name,' and 'Isn't He?'. Or you might listen prayerfully to music that glorifies Him, such as Steve Green's 'Hymns: A Portrait of Christ.' Whatever you do, make it your purpose to exalt Christ and His love for you!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 4:1-20
I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit. - John 15:5
TODAY IN THE WORD
Best-selling Christian author, Philip Gulley, tells the story of a former neighbor, Doctor Gibbs. When not practicing medicine, the doctor planted trees. But he had some strange ideas.

For instance, Doctor Gibbs would smack his trees with a rolled-up newspaper every morning 'to get their attention,' he said. And he didn't water his trees, telling young Philip that that would spoil them. His trees, he claimed, would be stronger and have deeper roots if he let them fend for themselves.

Was he right? Apparently so. Twenty-five years later, Philip describes these trees as strong and healthy, while trees he himself planted and tended carefully appear weak and fragile. From these trees, he draws a lesson adversity can strengthen character.

Jesus also drew spiritual lessons from the natural world, especially in His parables. A parable is a story, illustration, or metaphor drawn from everyday life, used to teach spiritual or moral truths.

Why does Jesus use parables? One reason is shown in verse 12 (quoting Isaiah 6:9-10) parables simultaneously hide and reveal, so that only those who respond in faith will understand. This means that Jesus' parables function as a test of spiritual receptivity, exposing the inner heart condition of His listeners.

In today's reading Jesus employs the picture of a farmer sowing seed to illustrate God's Word in human hearts. Jesus describes four possible responses: (1) Satan may steal the Word out of a heart, just as birds eat some seeds. (2) Hardships may destroy the Word in other hearts, just as plants in rocky soil wither quickly. (3) Life's worries may suffocate the Word, just as thorns choke some plants' growth. (4) God's Word produces spiritual fruit in other lives, as when seeds fall into good soil.

Of course, this last response is the one God desires!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Jesus often taught His disciples and the crowds in quite creative ways using an encounter with children as a teaching opportunity, making an object lesson out of a fig tree, or telling today's story about a farmer to illustrate responses to God's Word.

Following our Master, you too can be creative! Here are some helpful ideas related to today's devotional that you or your family might enjoy:

(1) Write a song that tells the parable of the sower.

(2) Draw or paint a picture of the sower in the fields.

(3) Invent a simple board game based on the different responses to the Word in the parable.

(4) Choreograph a mime that conveys the events and meanings of this parable.

Or, think of another activity in which your creativity can bring God glory!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 4:21-34
What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? - Mark 4:30
TODAY IN THE WORD
Researchers have recently concluded that artichokes help prevent skin cancer. Or, more exactly, silymarin, a compound found in artichokes, does so when rubbed on the skin like a body lotion or hand cream.

This is good news for the 600ꯠ Americans who develop skin cancer every year more than 10ꯠ die annually of the disease. Sun exposure is thought to be responsible for about 90 percent of all cases, and the problem is growing, especially among younger women. But now, 'artichoke lotion' may soon become the sunscreen of choice.

God's creation never ceases to amaze us! Who would have guessed that an ordinary artichoke would hold the secret to preventing skin cancer? Or that the tiny mustard seed grows into the largest of trees?

Jesus uses this illustration and others in today's reading as He continues sharing parables of the kingdom. The first picture is of a lamp the good news of God's kingdom is now revealed in Christ. We are to be good stewards of this knowledge (vv. 24-25). Matthew 5:16 further explains, 'Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.'

The second picture is of a growing plant. Who gets the credit? The farmer? No, nothing he does causes the seed to grow. Thanks to the way God created the natural world, it grows 'all by itself.' The principle is that God is sovereign (see also 1 Corinthians 3:6-8).

The third picture is of a mustard seed. This small seed grows into a large tree about 10-12 feet high. This also describes the growth of the kingdom it may start small, but one day it will dominate the earth. It is noteworthy that Jesus uses the same metaphor to describe faith (Matthew 17:20; Luke 17:6).
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Jesus often taught His disciples and the crowds in quite creative ways using an encounter with children as a teaching opportunity, making an object lesson out of a fig tree, or telling today's story about a farmer to illustrate responses to God's Word.Jesus used objects from everyday Jewish life to instruct His listeners in spiritual principles a lamp, a mustard seed, a farm. His audience could easily see such things in their homes or towns.

Would you like to create your own object lesson? Why not take Jesus' hint about seeds and plant a tree or start a garden? (If spring hasn't yet come to your area, save this idea for a warmer future!) If you have young children, involve them in the project, showing them how God delights to take what is small and grow it into something big. For yourself, you might make your tree or garden into an emblem of your ministry a visible reminder that God is the one who brings fruit.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 4:35-5:20
Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you. - Mark 5:19
TODAY IN THE WORD
Born in 1812 as a slave in Virginia, John Jasper spent his youth working on a tobacco farm. In 1831, he heard a sermon that put him under the conviction of the Holy Spirit regarding the sin in his life. After a twenty-five day struggle, John confessed his sins, joined a church, and began to lose the hatred he felt for those who enslaved him.

John Jasper became one of the most remarkable African-American preachers of the nineteenth century 24 years as a slave, 39 years as a free man. Yet for him it was spiritual bondage and freedom that was the real issue. Only God's love can set a person truly free, an emphasis in Jasper's preaching to which both blacks and whites responded.

In the same way, Jesus set the demoniac in today's reading dramatically free from Satanic oppression and bondage. His authority is powerfully displayed throughout today's reading.

First, Jesus shows His authority over the natural world by calming a storm. He and His disciples are crossing the Sea of Galilee when a storm arises. The disciples are frightened, and amazed when Jesus commandingly stops it. They don't yet fully comprehend His identity or His mission (4:41).

Second, Jesus shows His authority over the supernatural world by casting out demons. The destructive, degrading effect of demonic possession is seen both in the actions of the violent demoniac and in the senseless behavior of the pigs. Thankfully, God's power over the demonic realm is absolute the demons can only beg for mercy, there is no 'struggle' with omnipotence.

The Gentiles in this region responded with fear and incomprehension. They didn't understand the power they'd witnessed, and were more worried about the financial loss of the pigs. Like the disciples, and perhaps like us, they were ignorant even when God worked right in front of them!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The healed demoniac in today's reading sets a good example for us: He 'went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him' (5:20). Having experienced Jesus' mercy, the man immediately started to share the good news.

Is this your attitude to witnessing your faith? Are you able and eager to tell others how much Jesus has done for you? This week, we encourage you to look for at least one opportunity to tell an unbeliever something God has done for you, a way in which He has worked in your life. It might be your salvation testimony, or an answer to prayer. In any case, make it your purpose to glorify God and to attract others to Him through your words.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 5:21-43
Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering. - Mark 5:34
TODAY IN THE WORD
Jesus' miracles show His divine power and foreshadow His great victory over death, toward which Mark's narrative is moving. In The Cross in the New Testament, Leon Morris highlights Christ's liberating power and its effect on our lives:

'Whatever enemy Paul can think of he thinks of as beaten. Christ has conquered it; He has set men free from every spiritual foe....Paul sees deliverance in many aspects as one important part of the atonement. However many may be the tyrants that work to hold men in subjection, and whatever may be the means that they employ, Paul sees them as completely frustrated. Christ has delivered His people from them all.'

Those healed by Christ received a small taste of that world-changing power. Whether set free from illness, demons, or death itself, they should know that only God could have rescued them.

Today's reading focuses on two miracles, narrated in a 'sandwich structure.' That is, one story is started, 'interrupted' by another story, then finishes. The first story continues Mark's theme of gradually revealing Jesus' authority. We have seen His power over nature and demons, and over sickness and sin. Now He reverses death itself by raising Jairus's daughter to life!

Only the 'inner ring' of disciples Peter, James and John goes with Him. The people's reactions are ones we have already encountered—disbelief, then astonishment. And again Jesus orders those involved not to spread the news, because the Father's time for full revelation has not yet come (v. 43).

Although it also shows Jesus' power, the second story says more about the faith of the person healed. The woman believed that she would be cured, despite the failure of human medicine, if she could just touch Jesus. He stopped and singled her out in order to commend her faith publicly. When Jesus pronounced her 'healed' (v. 34), He used the same Greek word as 'saved' a coupling we have already seen in Mark, when Jesus healed the paralytic and forgave his sins (2:1-12). He is indeed the Great Physician!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
To accompany your study of Christ's life this month, and to prepare your heart to celebrate Resurrection Sunday, we encourage you to seek out additional books or videos that tell the 'greatest story of all time.'

Max Lucado (He Still Moves Stones) has written a number of best-selling volumes about Christ; they dramatically retell familiar stories and draw vivid lessons for believers today. Another recommendation is The Book of God by Walter Wangerin. The chapters on the life of Jesus imaginatively recreate key Gospel narratives, readers 'walk with Him' on the road to the Cross. You might also consider purchasing the 'Jesus' film, used around the world in effective evangelism. To accompany your study of Christ's life this month, and to prepare your heart to celebrate Resurrection Sunday, we encourage you to seek out additional books or videos that tell the 'greatest story of all time.'

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 6:1-13
I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. - John 13:16
TODAY IN THE WORD
The wealthy Edward Studd found Christ at a D. L. Moody evangelistic campaign, then led his three sons to the Lord. Some years later, one son, C. T. Studd, also attended a Moody meeting and dedicated his life to serve God on the foreign mission field.

His decision stunned Cambridge University, where Studd was a student and a star cricket player. Six other college students joined him in vowing to go to China, they became known as the 'Cambridge Seven.' While many considered their venture rash, these seven young men made a decision to sacrifice all for the sake of the gospel. C. T. Studd eventually served in China, India, and Africa over the course of his life.

The 'Cambridge Seven' followed in the footsteps of the 'Galilee Twelve.' Jesus sent His twelve disciples out on a special regional preaching mission in today's reading; later He would send them into all the world, a command which we continue to obey today (Matthew 28:19-20).

But first Jesus arrived in His hometown of Nazareth to a cold reception. Since the people there believed they 'knew' Jesus, they were offended by His teaching and growing reputation. 'Familiarity breeds contempt,' it is said, and in their blindness they can't see any deeper than His blue-collar family roots. This time Jesus is the one who's amazed at their lack of faith!

When He sends out the twelve disciples, Jesus delegates His authority to them. This is a key part of their training (cf. 3:14-15), since they must travel by faith (no extra food, money, or clothing) and with an uncompromising message. Just as Jesus has been doing, they are to link repentance and faith with physical and spiritual healing.

And so they headed out to obey the words of their Teacher, relying on His wisdom and power just as we do today!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Although your Gospel impressions might be dominated by large crowds and dramatic events, Jesus spent most of His time in smaller settings, teaching and training His disciples. The mission of the Twelve recorded in today's reading marks a milestone in their discipleship.

Discipleship is a key topic in our Christian lives. So we'd like to follow up yesterday's book recommendations with two more, this time on the subject of how you can be a more faithful and fruitful follower of Christ. The Training of the Twelve by A. B. Bruce studies and meditates on the methods by which Christ taught His disciples. The Cost of Discipleship, by the martyred Dietrich Bonhoeffer, has many excellent reflections on 'taking up our cross daily.' May the Holy Spirit use one of these or another volume to enrich your walk and ministry!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 6:14-29
A voice of one calling: 'In the desert prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God. -
TODAY IN THE WORD
Alexander Men was born during the terrible Stalinist persecution of the Russian churches in the 1920s and 1930s. But his mother, Elena, was a secret Christian and taught her young son the truths of the faith. By age 12 he had decided to become a priest.

Over the years, Alexander became well-known as a pastor, apologist, and trainer and encourager of younger leaders. He suffered constant government harassment until the political atmosphere changed under Mikhail Gorbachev. In 1988, Alexander gave the first of hundreds of lectures on Christianity and began actively using his new religious freedoms to spread the gospel. He told a friend, 'I'm only an instrument that God is using for the moment.'

The 'moment' ended on September 9, 1990. Alexander Men was attacked and struck on the back of the head with an ax, killed on his way to church.

Like Alexander Men and countless other martyrs, John the Baptist died for what he believed. Today's reading is the conclusion of the story with which this Gospel opened the career of Jesus' forerunner.

Herod put John in prison for condemning his immorality in marrying his brother's wife, Herodias. Although Herod himself liked to hear John speak, his wife pressured her husband to place John in prison. In fact, although he was puzzled by John, Herod believed him to be 'a righteous and holy man'(v. 20). But Herodias's grudge and a foolish oath by her husband lead to John's beheading.

This story is narrated within the context of Jesus' growing reputation. As a result of the Twelve's preaching mission, word about Jesus quickly spread. The multitudes were still confused about His identity, but also recognized His special nature. Herod, feeling guilty, wondered if Jesus might be John the Baptist, raised from the dead (v. 16).

John died with his mission accomplished, willing to leave the scene (Mark 9:13; John 3:27-30). And he died standing for the truths he had lived (Matthew 11:10-12).
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Today, we suggest that you take a meditative look back at the brief but remarkable career of John the Baptist. What lessons can we learn from his life?

Here are some questions that may help you as you reflect: What was the central priority of John's life? What was the core of his message? How and why did the crowds respond? the religious leaders? Herod and his family? Why was John persecuted and imprisoned? What was his attitude to Jesus? What did Jesus say about John?

If you wish, write out your thoughts on John the Baptist in your diary or spiritual journal.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 6:30-56
Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid. - Mark 6:50
TODAY IN THE WORD
Three preachers were out fishing bright and early one Saturday morning. After they'd found a good spot and cast their lines, one of them suddenly remembered he'd left his lunch on shore. Stepping out of the boat, he walked casually to shore, retrieved it, and returned to the boat.

Then the second preacher remembered he'd left his tackle box on shore. He repeated the first man's exploit.

The third preacher sat stunned by the 'walks on the water' he'd just witnessed. Not to be thought lacking in faith, he announced he'd left his hat on shore and stepped out of the boat. Splash!

The first preacher turned to the other and asked, 'Do you suppose we should have shown him the rocks to step on?'

Unlike the people in this scenario, Jesus' walk on the water was, of course, the real thing, again demonstrating His power over nature.

The day began with a miraculous feeding. The disciples had returned from their preaching tour, hoping for rest and privacy to review their experiences with Jesus. But the multitudes overwhelmed them, and Jesus responded with compassion. Although the disciples had recently been healing and casting out demons, they lacked the faith to believe that more than 5ꯠ people could be fed (v. 37). Again, Jesus demonstrates His power and not by halves, as there are plenty of leftovers!

That evening, while Jesus stayed behind to pray, the tired Twelve set out across Galilee in a fishing boat. Jesus saw them and walked to them across the water. The disciples were amazed and terrified, for they hadn't understood the lesson of that afternoon (v. 52) that with God, all things are possible. (Mark doesn't mention that Peter also tried to walk on the water perhaps Peter felt the story was already too well-known!)

The disciples had just returned from successful ministry, yet they were still lacking in faith twice in one day! There's a lesson here to always take God at His word.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Jesus met the physical needs of His listeners, miraculously feeding them with only five loaves and two fish. His motivation? Compassion the same motive that led Him to meet their spiritual needs (v. 34).

You, too, can be motivated by compassion to meet the physical needs of those around you. As an application for today's devotion, we suggest you look for a concrete way to serve those less fortunate. You might make a donation to a food pantry, for instance. Or volunteer to help serve a meal at a soup kitchen. If your church is having an Easter dinner drive, generously give food items or actively play a role in distributing the food to those in need.

Jesus cared for the whole person and so can we!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 7:1-37
Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer. - Deuteronomy 10:16
TODAY IN THE WORD
Haman enjoyed his power in the Persian court. He particularly enjoyed the fear and respect he received from others. So when Mordecai gave him neither, his ego felt bruised. He built gallows on which to hang Mordecai, then hurried to the king's palace to ask permission.

When he arrived, the king had a different question on his mind: 'What should be done for the man the king delights to honor?' Believing that man was himself, Haman answered that he should be dressed in the king's clothes and paraded through the city on the king's horse.

'Go at once,' said the king. 'Do just as you have suggested for Mordecai.'

Haman the hypocrite was caught in his own trap! No doubt his hatred burned inwardly as he honored his enemy outwardly. This two-faced character from the book of Esther parallels the Pharisees in today's reading.

They had accused the disciples of ceremonial uncleanness, but Jesus cuts straight to the real issue clean hearts, not clean hands. They have focused on outward forms at the expense of true inner righteousness. Jesus' words are strong and harsh the leaders are 'hypocrites' (v. 6), placing human traditions ahead of the commands of God (v. .

Jesus doesn't stop there. He gives a supporting example of how the Pharisees excuse themselves from honoring their parents by using a hypocritical legal technicality. By the time Jesus adds 'And you do many things like that' (v. 13), the Pharisees are probably burning from the public humiliation.

Jesus then turns to the crowd to explain the principle involved. 'Cleanliness' is a heart issue, determined by what comes out, not by what goes in (vv. 15, 20-23). Sin is the only 'dirt' that makes us unclean.

Do we really think we can hide our hearts from God? Then we'd better act to please Him, not people!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Let's try to apply today's reading to our personal or family entertainment choices, including any way in which we use our free time. This might include books, television, hobbies, sports, movies, games, sightseeing, Internet use, etc.

How often do we discuss such activities in light of their effect on our hearts? That is, since Jesus taught that what is 'unclean' comes from the heart, we should be focusing on the state of our hearts. Take a minute to do a self-examination. Do our entertainment choices grow the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) or are they more likely to feed our sinful nature (Mark 7:21-22)? Do they meet the criteria listed in Philippians 4:8?

Choose one of your favorite free-time activities and discuss with a friend or family member its effects on your heart.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 8:1-26
The bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. - John 6:33
TODAY IN THE WORD
Breadmakers are a handy modern gadget of recent days. Occupying a space slightly larger than a shoe box on the kitchen countertop, they make baking homemade bread an easy chore. Just measure in water, flour, yeast, and other ingredients, then push a button the machine does the rest! Purists prefer to bake bread the old-fashioned way, but many thousands of homemakers are using breadmakers, saving time, and pleasing their families with the tasty results.

Even a fleet of breadmakers, though, would not have been enough to feed the crowd in today's reading. Instead, we find here another God-sized 'catering' miracle! This time Jesus feeds a crowd of more than 4ꯠ people, and again there are many leftovers. Also again, sadly enough, the disciples are thinking from a human perspective rather than in terms of God's power (v. 4).

Jesus also uses a bread metaphor later in the day, warning His disciples against the 'yeast' of the Pharisees. Their corrupt influence and unbelieving hearts are distinctly shown in this chapter as well as the preceding one. Jesus has to explain the lesson to His confused disciples the spiritual reality of God's power, care, and provision can clearly be seen with the eyes of faith.

Strangely enough, we can be encouraged by how slow the disciples are to learn from Jesus. In today's reading, they seem to have 'forgotten' the feeding of the 5ꯠ and the many other miracles they've witnessed. Yet how many times have we done the same? We fail to count our blessings, to praise God for all He's done in our lives, instead whining and complaining to Him. But God patiently 're-teaches' us, even when our eyes are blind and our hearts are hard (vv. 17-18).
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Today's reading contains two more examples of Jesus' compassion and concern for the people He met (cf. 9:41). In light of that, we'd like to suggest two ideas for connecting the physical and the spiritual in your prayer life this month.

Some of you might tell your children a Bible story of God providing food perhaps the feeding of the 4ꯠ in today's reading, or God sending manna for the Israelites in the wilderness at a meal. Then, thank God for the food at the end of the meal rather than the beginning after your story, this prayer will be more than a quick formality!

For others, consider fasting for one meal. Devote the time and money that would have been spent cooking and eating to the Lord for example, use the time for Bible study or prayer, or give the money to a compassion ministry in your community.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 8:27-9:1
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. - Mark 8:35
TODAY IN THE WORD
Reformation theologian John Calvin has some wise words about the cost of following Christ:

'Those whom the Lord has chosen and honored with His intercourse must prepare for a hard, laborious, troubled life....Having begun this course with Christ the first-born, He continues it towards all His children....Hence it affords us great consolation in hard and difficult circumstances, which men deem evil and adverse, to think that we are holding fellowship with the sufferings of Christ....How powerfully should it soften the bitterness of the cross, to think that the more we are afflicted with adversity, the surer we are made of our fellowship with Christ; by communion with whom our sufferings are not only blessed to us, but tend greatly to the furtherance of our salvation.'

As we see clearly in today's passage, that's what it means to be a disciple of Christ! Here the unfolding drama of Jesus' identity, authority, and mission reaches a climax first, through Peter's confession of Christ.

Jesus asks His disciples who everyone thinks He is. After the babble of answers John the Baptist, Elijah, a prophet He asks who they think He is. Peter responds with decisive clarity, 'You are the Christ' (8:29). That special moment of insight came from God (Matthew 16:17).

The second portion of the climax is Jesus' prediction of His death. He speaks plainly, telling the disciples for the first time that He must suffer, be rejected, and die, but also that He will rise from the dead.

Perhaps emboldened by his 'success' a moment before, Peter scolds Jesus for these words they contradict the disciples' expectations of a Messiah. But Jesus strongly rebukes him as an agent of Satan (Mark 8:33). Nothing can prevent the Son from obeying the Father's will!

And that's not all every disciple of Christ must follow in His footsteps. To follow Him means to take up our crosses daily, to give our lives wholly for the message of Life.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Discipleship is often mentioned in the book of Mark, and today's passage reveals some important truths on that theme. So we recommend that you commit Mark 8:34-35 to memory. You might write these verses down somewhere and carry them with you throughout the day, reading and reviewing them as you are able.

Scripture memorization is an excellent spiritual discipline, necessary and beneficial to every disciple of Christ. As Joshua 1:8 says: 'Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.'

As you memorize, consider ways in which you can obey Jesus' words.