TODAY IN THE WORD

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 9:2-32
This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him! - Mark 9:7
TODAY IN THE WORD
By outward appearance, Frodo Baggins, a hero in J.R.R. Tolkein's Lord of the Rings trilogy, wore ordinary clothing. There seemed to be nothing especially beautiful or strong about his simple outfit.

But in one episode, an attack by goblins showed otherwise. Sure that Frodo has been killed in the battle, his friends pick up his body and make their escape. They are astounded when he says he's fine and asks to be put down. How, they wonder, did he survive? He takes off his shirt and reveals that he's been wearing a 'mithril' coat an especially strong and beautiful sort of silver. The armor had saved his life!

In a small way, Frodo's revelation of his hidden silver armor resembles the revelation of Christ's 'hidden glory' on the Mount of Transfiguration. This event is a key moment for Christ, preparing for Passion Week, and for His 'inner ring' of disciples, overwhelmed by the unveiled divinity of their Teacher.

Where one moment there had stood an ordinary-looking Jewish rabbi, suddenly there is one robed in dazzling white, talking with Moses and Elijah! The disciples are stunned and don't know how to respond (which doesn't prevent Peter from speaking!). Later, Peter, Mark's source, will cite this experience directly as evidence for his apostleship (2 Peter 1:16-18).

God's voice and approving words recall Jesus' baptism at the beginning of Mark (1:11) this is another testimony or validation by the Father of the Son's claims to spiritual authority. They also recall the cloud of His glory that guided the Israelites during the Exodus (see Exodus 13:21). The miracle following, of the demon-possessed boy at the bottom of the mountain, further proclaims Jesus' divine identity. Jesus is Lord!

Paradoxically, He chooses this time to make a second explicit prediction of His suffering, death, and resurrection (Mark 9:31). The disciples may not have understood, but all the pieces of God's puzzle are coming together.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The Mount of Transfiguration, here at the midpoint of our study of Mark, is a good place to stop and spend some extra time meditating on the person of Christ.

As you've been reading this month, what qualities or characteristics have you seen in Christ's life? What difference has this made in your daily walk with Him? In other words, who is Christ and how has He revealed Himself to you?

To answer these questions, you might write out in your diary or spiritual journal a personal prayer of thanksgiving for all that Jesus means to you. Back on March 3rd, we suggested you keep a running list of His attributes as you read through Mark if you've been doing that, you can use your list to help you write your prayer.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 9:33-50
Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with each other. - Mark 9:50
TODAY IN THE WORD
In the Moody Press book Little Minds With Big Hearts, editor Ramona Cramer Tucker collects amusing stories submitted by Christian moms to the 'Heart to Heart' page of Today's Christian Woman magazine.

One child asked his mother if he could stop at the library to borrow the Lamb's Book of Life. Another prayed, 'Dear God, thank you for giving us our sins.' Still another sang, 'Goats tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born!' And one little girl told a friend, 'Only God has crayons big enough to make rainbows.'

Refreshing and innocent, children often give us a new perspective on Christian truths we may have known for years. This spirit of childlike humility is praised by Jesus in today's reading.

This attitude is contrasted with that of the disciples. Instead of learning from the humble obedience of their Master (as shown in His willingness to suffer and die, 9:31), they debate about who among them will be the greatest in God's kingdom. Jesus uses a child to illustrate that in His kingdom, the first must be last (v. 35), a total reversal of the world's principles.

True greatness is found in humility. What's at stake? Our very relationship with Christ (v. 37)!

True righteousness is also on Jesus' teaching agenda. It includes compassion (v. 41) and an acute consciousness of sin. We should neither sin nor cause others to sin. Jesus uses forceful hyperboles 'drowning by millstone,' cutting off body parts to illustrate the serious nature of sin, and how much God hates it. Again, our eternal destiny is at stake will we 'enter life' or 'go into hell'? The metaphor of salt, a spice and a preservative, also describes true righteousness (v. 50; cf. Matthew 5:13).

As we continue in Mark down the 'road to the Cross,' we can see true greatness and true righteousness most clearly in the person of Christ Himself.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
King David wrote: 'I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, 'I will confess my transgression to the Lord' and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found' (Psalm 32:5-6).

Why not follow David's example today? Especially in light of Jesus' teaching regarding the seriousness of sin (Mark 9:42-47), we need to have regular times of confessing our sin to Him. He has promised to forgive us (1 John 1:9)!

You might end your prayer of confession with these words from another psalm: 'Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name. Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me' (Psalm 119:132-133).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 10:1-12
What God has joined together, let man not separate. - Mark 10:9
TODAY IN THE WORD
'I have dreamed of this day many times,' wrote Alice Si on July 11, 1998, the day of her marriage to Johann Malmberg. 'I have cried with joy at my friends' weddings. It touches me so much when I witness the wonderful union God has brought between a man and a woman, it's hard to believe that it's now my turn.'

In her wedding program, Alice shared her testimony and spoke of how God had brought her and Johann together: 'God drew us closer as we worshipped Him together. It was His love that connected our hearts and united us together and on Him we build our marriage.'

As they joined their lives, Alice and Johann clearly understood that God must be the foundation for their relationship. After all, He designed marriage!

Jesus' teaching on marriage and divorce in today's reading is prompted by another 'test question' from the Pharisees. Perhaps the Pharisees are hoping to trap Jesus on the same issue that had gotten John the Baptist into trouble with Herod.

Historically, Moses had permitted divorce, but Jesus authoritatively says this was only due to the Israelites' hard hearts. Quoting Genesis 1:27 and 2:24, Jesus demonstrates that God's plan is one man-one woman for life. There is a mystical union of two bodies and two souls into 'one flesh' that should not be broken.

The marriage covenant is sacred before God, which is why today's verse is often quoted in Christian wedding ceremonies. Ecclesiastes 4:12 is often cited as well: 'A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.' Because He designed marriage, God is the necessary 'third partner' for every husband and wife.

To His disciples, Jesus makes explicit the implications of this teaching divorce and remarriage are nothing short of adultery (Mark 10:11-12). This is a hard teaching, quite different from the attitudes of modern Western societies, but God takes His commands concerning marriage seriously. So should we!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
That God has an ideal and a plan for marriage is abundantly clear in this passage. Here are several ideas for following up on today's devotional:

(1) Plan a special time with your spouse in the near future. Pick a setting where the two of you can have privacy (not a ballgame, in other words). Get a baby-sitter for the kids. Don't be stingy with time or money. Enjoy God's gift of marriage!

(2) Do additional Bible study on marriage and family relationships. Start where Jesus did with the creation narrative (Genesis 1-2). And don't neglect Paul's teachings, for example, Ephesians 5:22-6:4. How do you see yourself applying what you learn?

(3) If you are single, consider talking with older believers about their marriage. What wisdom or life-experience do they have to share?

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 10:13-31
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. - Mark 10:15
TODAY IN THE WORD
What would it take for a kid from the slums to go to college and become a success? Consider the non-material side of this question.

A sociology professor sent his students to gather case histories of 200 young boys from the Baltimore slums. Twenty-five years later, another professor had his students follow up on the earlier study. Amazingly, they found that 176 of the 200 had achieved successful careers as lawyers, doctors, and businessmen. How? Each explained, 'There was a teacher.'

So the professor sought out the teacher and asked, 'What was your secret?'

She replied, 'It's really very simple. I loved those boys.'

For that teacher, reward was not found in a monthly paycheck, but in seeing her students learn and grow. The world judges success by material standards, but she lived by different rules.

This is the same lesson Jesus teaches in today's reading. A child may enter the kingdom, but a rich young ruler cannot God's rules are different!

Once again, Jesus holds up a child as an example (see 9:35-37). This is a specific rebuke to His disciples, who had been 'protecting' their Teacher's valuable time. Jesus rearranges their idea of 'valuable' with the startling assertion found in today's verse.

This principle is quickly seen in a rich young ruler with a question about eternal life. His question is sincere, as is his claim to have followed the Ten Commandments throughout his life.

Lovingly, Jesus looks into this man's heart and cuts straight to the real issue. He finds that there is something more precious to this man than eternal life his material possessions. So Jesus tells him to go and sell everything and give the money to the poor. The man goes away sad, for his heart's treasure is on earth (cf. Matthew 6:19-21).

On the other hand, those whose hearts are centered on heaven will be amply rewarded for their sacrifices here on earth (Mark 10:29-31).
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
As we are seeing, Jesus often seized 'chance meetings' with people and turned them into 'teachable moments.' His 'people encounters' became lessons in the disciples' training program.

Openness and teachability are key qualities for followers of Christ today, as well. So we urge you this week to look for and seize a teachable moment in your child's life, a friend's life, or your own life. That is, in at least one 'people encounter' this week, consciously teach or learn a spiritual lesson from what is said or done. Be sure to base the lesson upon Scripture!

This is one way to 'spur one another on toward love and good deeds' (Hebrews 10:24).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 10:32-52
Even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. - Mark 10:45
TODAY IN THE WORD
In his classic devotional My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers remarks about servanthood:

'If we are devoted to the cause of humanity, we shall soon be crushed and broken-hearted, for we shall often meet with more ingratitude from men than we would from a dog; but if our motive is to love God, no ingratitude can hinder us from serving our fellow men....[N]o matter how men may treat me, they will never treat me with the spite and hatred with which I treated Jesus Christ. When we realize that Jesus Christ has served us to the end of our meanness, our selfishness, and sin, nothing that we meet with from others can exhaust our determination to serve men for His sake.'

Christ exemplifies perfectly the ideal of servanthood, an ideal His disciples obviously hadn't grasped yet. On this topic, today's reading centers around an attitude contrast between Jesus and His disciples.

Jesus, for the third time in Mark, speaks directly of His suffering, death and resurrection (vv. 33-34). To Him, this is a natural follow-up to yesterday's teaching on sacrifice and servanthood (vv. 29-31). Those remarks had stirred astonishment and fear, reactions we've seen all too often in this Gospel, and no doubt His listeners responded similarly to His Passion prediction.

At any rate, James and John certainly didn't get the point! They approach Jesus privately to request seats of honor in His kingdom (cf. 9:33-37). Using images of baptism and a cup, He responds that they will suffer for His Name (Mark 10:39) rather different from what they wanted to hear!

Jesus tries to explain His meaning to all the disciples. The world says that power is for ruling, for lording it over others. But in God's economy, power is for serving (vv. 42-44). If we want 'seats of honor' in His kingdom, in this as in all things we must imitate Christ!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
We have reached a crucial moment in the Gospel of Mark. Passion Week is about to begin. Jesus will enter Jerusalem in triumph...and be hanging on a cross by the end of the week. As we approach the events at the core of salvation and of our faith, it's time to take a deep spiritual breath.

Take this time of respite to thumb back through 'Today Along the Way' sections from earlier this month. Is there one you intended to do but haven't yet? Is the Holy Spirit leading you to do one that you'd skipped?

It will certainly help your spiritual walk!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 11:1-19
Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! - Mark 11:9
TODAY IN THE WORD
In the classic holiday film, 'It's A Wonderful Life,' George Bailey is in trouble. A banker, he's misplaced a large sum of money actually, it has been nabbed by his rival, Mr. Potter. Because of his generosity to others, George doesn't have enough money to cover the loss and is in danger of going to jail.

An 'angel' named Clarence shows George all the good he's done and convinces him not to kill himself, but the problem of the money remains. Suddenly the door of the house bangs open in stream the people of the town. Remembering his kindness, they've gathered their money to help George in his time of need. Their dramatic entrance concludes the story in a spirit of joy!

Jesus' dramatic entrance in today's reading also brings joy to many, but a different emotion to the 'businessmen' in the temple. Far from helping others, the vendors and moneylenders were cheating the worshipers.

With the 'triumphal entry' into Jerusalem, Passion Week now begins. Fulfilling the words of Zechariah 9:9, Jesus enters the city riding the colt of a donkey, indicating humility. That it had never been ridden before may signify its dedication to special religious use.

The people, looking for the immediate establishment of Messiah's kingdom, treat Jesus as royalty. They pave his way with cloaks and leafy branches, shouting, 'Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' (Mark 11:9; cf. Psalm 118:26).

Jesus' first act in Jerusalem is a forceful one He drives commerce out of the temple. Why? The 'businessmen' have turned God's house into a mere marketplace (v. 17; cf. Isaiah 56:7). They exploit the worshipers for profit. The verse mentions 'all nations' because they've set up shop in the court of the Gentiles, the part of the temple open to non-Jews.

What a start to the week! The King has come, and He's making His presence felt!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
When Jesus rode into Jerusalem, the crowd shouted words of praise from Psalm 118, which is particularly associated with Passover week. It may have been the hymn sung at the close of the Last Supper (Mark 14:26).

Why not spend some extra time today reflecting on this key psalm? Read through it slowly. 'Chew over' important verses. Meditate on the power of God and the spirit of thanksgiving shown here. Pray some of the words. Ask God what He wants to teach you. Personalize the psalm by praising God for His work in your own life, family, church, and community.

You'll draw closer to God as you imitate Psalm 143:5: 'I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 11:20-12:12
The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone. - Mark 12:10
TODAY IN THE WORD
When pioneer missionary Hudson Taylor started the China Inland Mission (CIM), he decided not to make any public appeals for funds. Among other reasons, he believed this policy would be an example that God provides for those who obey Him. Hudson's faith was stretched many times in this area, yet he stood by his conviction and God always supplied.

At one point, donations had decreased due to political controversy between China and England. Just prior to this, God had spurred George Muller, founder of orphanages, to increase his support for the work in China. He sent a letter and eleven checks one for each of the CIM missionaries whom he didn't already support. This encouraging letter arrived in China at precisely the moment when money was most desperately needed!

Hudson Taylor knew a truth found in today's reading: the prayer of faith is always granted. That's the lesson of the fig tree, an episode actually started in yesterday's reading (vv. 12-14, 20-25). When we pray, we must come open to God. That's faith, which includes total submission to the will of God (cf. 14:36). We must also come open to people. That's forgiveness, a desire to treat others as God treats us (cf. Matt. 5:23-24).

On this day, Jesus is challenged by the religious leaders. Their traps and tests, their fear and hatred, all come to a head in the question, 'By what authority are you doing these things?' (Mark 11:28). God's time for a direct answer has not yet come, so Jesus counters with a question about John the Baptist. Afraid to answer, the Pharisees let the issue drop.

In the parable of the tenants, Jesus reveals the leaders' attitudes (12:12). They don't want to acknowledge their rightful ruler, God; instead they are selfish and rebellious. The parable may also be interpreted as the history of Israel (cf. Isa. 5:1-2) the nation persecuted the prophets, and soon it will kill the Son of God Himself. But there's good news death will not be able to defeat Him (Mark 12:10-11)!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
What Bible study tools do you currently use or own? If you don't already have one, we recommend you obtain a 'harmony' of the Gospels. This book takes all four Gospels and places the life of Christ in chronological order, with parallel passages side by side. In other words, you can read the whole story straight through!

A study Bible is likely to have a 'harmony' with outline and references only; a full 'harmony' has complete passages. As we continue to progress through Passion Week in Mark, you may be interested in tracking the other Gospels' narratives of the same week. As you familiarize yourself with this valuable tool, our prayer is that you become a skilled handler of God's Word (2 Tim. 2:15).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 12:13-44
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. - Mark 12:30
TODAY IN THE WORD
Exams are an unavoidable part of students' lives. There are the SAT and ACT for college entrance, the GRE and others for graduate school, and the TOEFL for foreign students, besides typical weeks of final exams at the ends of semesters. Ideally, such exams serve as objective criteria for admissions or grading, or as measures of achievement or progress in a particular field of study.

Students and teachers know, though, that this is not always the case. Some students 'test well,' higher than their true knowledge or ability, while some teachers have trouble creating and grading exams in ways that accomplish those ideal purposes.

In today's reading Jesus is given an aggressive 'final exam' by a group out to see him fail, the Pharisees, but He passes with flying colors! In His final teachings, Jesus addresses several different subjects.

First, should the Jews pay taxes to the Romans? This is a politically loaded question, particularly for a possible 'Messiah.' Of course, Jesus sees the trap in the question, and His wise answer amazes everyone (v. 17).

Second, what about marriage in the afterlife? The Sadducees, who don't even believe in resurrection, pose this question as a ridiculous 'brain teaser.' Jesus responds that marriage doesn't exist in heaven, then challenges their disbelief. God is the God of the living (v. 27)!

Third, what is the greatest commandment? This question seems motivated by sincere admiration for how well Jesus has answered the other challenges. He sums up the entire Mosaic law in the principles of loving and worshipping God, and loving our neighbors (vv. 29-31).

The 'test' is over no one dares ask any more questions. Now Jesus takes the offensive, proving the eternality of the Christ (from Ps. 110:1) and condemning the leaders for hypocrisy, injustice, and selfishness. By contrast, the widow who gives her last pennies to God (Mark 12:41-44) lives by total faith!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Throughout Mark, we have seen the pride and hypocrisy of the Jewish religious leaders in response to Jesus, and in today's reading He condemns them in very strong language. The Pharisees demonstrate the opposite of the 'servant principle' that Christ teaches His disciples (Mark 9:35).

This week, we encourage you to act like a disciple, not a Pharisee. How? Search out and do a concrete act of service for another person. Give a gift of your time, money, or energy to someone as a special expression of God's love through you. Don't seek human credit for your action keep it between you and the Lord. He sees everything, knows your heart, and will reward you for your obedience!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 13:1-23
All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. - Mark 13:13
TODAY IN THE WORD
The Christian film 'Thief in the Night,' shown in thousands of churches over the years, warns us to be prepared for Christ's return.

In one sequence an alarm clock awakes a husband and wife. The husband goes into the bathroom to shower and shave. Suddenly the wife can't hear the familiar noises as he moves around, only the whine of his electric razor. She goes into the bathroom, but there's no one there. Her husband, a believer, has been 'raptured' and gone to be with Christ. The background music whispers to the wife, 'You've been left behind.'

The producers based this and similar scenes on Matthew 24:40-41 and Luke 17:34-35. One day Christ will return with shocking suddenness are we ready?

Jesus concludes His Passion Week teaching with a long discourse on eschatology, often called the 'end times.' This seems to be addressed privately to His disciples. They admire the temple (v. 1), but Jesus wants them to see what truly matters. The temple will be destroyed one day, but God's kingdom lasts forever.

What signs will ushe1168 B.C., Antiochus Epiphanes had erected an altar to Zeus in the Jerusalem temple, partly fulfilling Daniel's prophecy. But Jesus indicates that this prophecy will also apply in the future. The Antichrist, also called the 'Man of Lawlessness' (2 Thess. 2), by accepting worship will repeat this idolatrous pattern.

How are we to live in light of all this? As Jesus often repeats, we are to be on our guard, prepared and watchful for His return.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Today and tomorrow, through Christ's teaching on the end times, we look beyond Passion Week to His glorious Second Coming.

So here's a hypothetical question: If you could somehow know that Christ would return tomorrow, how would spend your last day on earth? Are you being faithful to the tasks God has given you? What would most please Christ to find you doing when He returns? Now compare this to what you were planning to do tomorrow. Is there a radical difference between how you answered the first and second questions? If yes, you may need to check your priorities.

Our prayer is that upon His return, Christ will greet each of us with the words, 'Well done, good and faithful servant!' (Matt. 25:21).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 13:24-37
At that time men will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. - Mark 13:26
TODAY IN THE WORD
In exile on the island of Patmos off the coast of present-day Turkey, the Apostle John recounts a stunning vision.

A voice like a trumpet spoke to him. He turned around and saw a man wearing a long robe with a golden sash. His eyes were blazing, His hair pure white. His feet glowed, His voice roared like a waterfall. In one hand He held seven stars; out of His mouth came a double-edged sword. His face shone like the sun.

John fell on his face before his risen Lord. Jesus assured him: 'Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever!' (see Rev. 1:9-18).

John saw a sight which all believers long for and will rejoice to see our Savior, living and glorified! One day He will come to claim His people and consummate history. This exciting truth is also found here in Mark 13, as Jesus concludes His teaching on the end times.

After the signs and events we listed yesterday, what will happen? Christ will return! He will come in power to gather His people (vv. 26-27). A 'rapture' of believers will precede His Second Coming, the marker for the start of the Millennial Kingdom.

We must be busy preparing ourselves for this exciting event. As Jesus succinctly said, 'Watch!' (Mark 13:37). Just as people can read the signs of nature about weather or plants, we should be able to read the 'signs of the times' (vv. 28-29).

Again, there is a dual prophetic perspective. Some of the prophecy will be fulfilled in 'this generation' (v. 30) when the temple is destroyed in 70 A.D. But Jesus also has in mind events still future to us today. When will these things happen? Only the Father knows (v. 32).

Until that day, we desire to be spiritually awake, actively obeying and following our Lord!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Numerous times in this chapter, Jesus cautions and exhorts His disciples to be ready and watchful. How about you? Are you ready for the Lord's return? Are you obeying and following Christ to the utmost?

Today we suggest that you review and evaluate your involvement in your local church. Are you regularly participating in worship, fellowship, etc.? Are you using your spiritual gifts by ministering to others? We're not asking how busy you are with church activities instead, we're asking you to reflect and pray over the nature and quality of those activities.

As with yesterday's hypothetical question, you may find that some adjustments are necessary. Be obedient to what God shows you!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 14:1-26
This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. - Mark 14:24
TODAY IN THE WORD
The Passover meal may be one of the oldest ongoing ceremonies in human history.

Just prior to the Exodus from Egypt (ca. 1446 B.C.), God told Moses to instruct the Israelites to sacrifice perfect lambs for a special meal (see Exo. 12). They put blood from these lambs on the doorframes of their houses so that the Lord would spare the firstborn son from the death that awaited the firstborn sons of the Egyptians. The lamb itself was to be roasted and served with bitter herbs and yeastless bread.

Since that day, according to God's command, the Jewish people have celebrated Passover to commemorate their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. In our Bible reading, Jesus eats the Passover with His disciples and gives it a continuing, deeper meaning for the church today to commemorate our deliverance from the slavery of sin.

First, there is the episode of His anointing. A woman (Mary, see John 12:3) anoints Jesus' head with perfume worth a year's wages a gift fit for a King! Some rebuke her for wastefulness, but Jesus commends her beautiful act of devotion to Him.

Jesus' death is a once-in-history event (Mark 14:7). Mary has anointed Him for burial, and her story will be told throughout the world (v. 9). (The Gospel of Mark itself fulfills these words!)

Now we come to the 'Last Supper' of Jesus and His disciples, their celebration of the Jewish Passover feast. Here Jesus establishes a symbol for the future church the bread represents His body, the wine His blood (vv. 22-24). As He has predicted, soon His body will be broken and His blood shed to redeem the sins of the world.

As Jesus said: 'I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world' (John 6:51).
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
As we know, the 'Last Supper' shared by Jesus and His disciples is also a lasting ordinance for the church. We celebrate communion to remember Christ's body and blood, sacrificed for us.

In light of today's reading, we urge you to prepare your heart for your church's next communion service. Read one or more of these additional passages: Matthew 26:26-30; Luke 22:14-20; or 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. Copy down at least three verses that capture the significance of communion. Carry these verses with you and read them over daily.

The next time you participate in communion, these verses will be easily recalled to your mind, helping you focus on Christ's redemptive love and prompting a response of thankfulness and worship.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 14:27-65
Not what I will, but what you will. - Mark 14:36
TODAY IN THE WORD
The 'Judas kiss' has become a well-known symbol of betrayal.

You may have heard stories about the 'Judas kiss' being used among old-style 'Mafia' crime families. If one of them was suspected of being a police informer, his loyalty would be tested. If he passed, he would be welcomed back. But if he failed, he would be confronted and condemned. The spokesman would kiss the betrayer on both cheeks, signifying that the 'Mafia' family had turned against him. It became known as the 'kiss of death.'

To take what should convey affection and turn it into an act of betrayal is indeed twisted. Yet in today's reading this is how Judas identifies his Master to hand Him over to His enemies. His betrayal had already been set in motion (14:10-11, 17-21) this is the final step.

Knowing death is near, Jesus seeks out the garden of Gethsemane for prayer. His soul is overwhelmed with what is about to happen (v. 34). He will drink the cup of suffering in obedience to His Father (v. 36). How much He loves us!

Next, Jesus' enemies arrive, and Judas's kiss is the first wound given to our Savior. One of the chosen Twelve has betrayed his Teacher; the rest flee in fear and confusion (cf. Zech. 13:7). (Mark also appears to have been present he is likely the 'young man' in verses 51-52.)

In the dead of night, Jesus is put on trial before the Sanhedrin, the council of Jewish leaders. They can't get their lying witnesses in order, so the proceedings are disorderly. At last the high priest asks Jesus for His true identity. In God's plan the moment of full revelation has arrived Jesus unmistakably asserts His deity (v. 62).

On grounds of blasphemy (cf. Lev. 24:16), the Sanhedrin condemns Jesus to death, then mocks and tortures Him. Jesus remains silent the Lamb led to the slaughter (cf. Isa. 53:7).
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Make Jesus' agonized prayer 'Not what I will, but what you will' your own in a special prayer focus. For three days, or another length of time you choose, set aside your normal prayer methods. Instead, pray: (1) that God reveal His will for you in your life at this time; and (2) that He make you wholly submissive and obedient to that will.

This may not be as simple as it sounds. We often get on our knees with a 'shopping list' of prayer requests, problems, intercessory needs, etc. Or, we are accustomed to various aids or techniques for disciplining our prayer lives. While these may be helpful, we suggest that you leave them behind for this activity.

Then approach this special prayer time with an eager expectation that God will speak to you in a real and personal way!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 14:66-15:20
'Crucify him!' they shouted. - Mark 15:13
TODAY IN THE WORD
When Carrie Blackaby, age 16, was diagnosed with cancer, her father Henry didn't understand. What was God doing? Why? But the Blackabys didn't question God's love. Henry writes in Experiencing God:

'At times I went before the Heavenly Father, and I saw behind my daughter the Cross of Jesus Christ. I said, 'Father, don't ever let me look at circumstances and question your love for me. Your love for me was settled on the Cross. That has never changed and will never change for me.' Our love relationship with the Heavenly Father sustained us through a very difficult time.'

God was pleased to heal Carrie and restore her to her family. But even if God had not done so, Henry Blackaby would have taken his stand on God's perfect love shown through His Son Jesus.

In today's reading, Jesus continues down the road to the Cross. While He is on trial before the Sanhedrin, Peter is outside in the courtyard. As Jesus had predicted (14:29-31), out of fear Peter three times denies knowing his Lord. When he realizes what he's done (v. 72), Peter weeps over his faithlessness. We know that his repentance will bring Jesus' forgiveness (John 21:15-19).

Meanwhile Jesus is taken to another trial, before the Roman governor Pontius Pilate. Blasphemy doesn't qualify as a capital crime here, so the Sanhedrin charges Jesus as a political rebel who is setting up his own kingdom (cf. John 18:36-37). Sensing that envy, not justice, motivates them, Pilate tries to duck responsibility by offering to release a prisoner. When the crowd calls for Barabbas's freedom and Jesus' death, he gives in to please them.

Infected by the general atmosphere, the Roman soldiers taunt and strike Jesus. They even set a crown of thorns on His head little did they know that their badge of mockery would become to the church a symbol of love!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
In his fear and weakness, Peter denied knowing or following Jesus. How about you? Do you own Christ publicly? Do your words and actions boldly proclaim your Savior? Do you know how to answer someone who asks you about your faith?

To motivate you for witnessing, we suggest you memorize one of the following: Mark 8:38 or, if you're feeling more ambitious, 1 John 2:20-25. These verses impress upon us the seriousness of our responsibility to share the gospel. If we are ashamed of Christ, He will be ashamed of us. If we claim to know God, our actions should show it. And if we know that Jesus is the Christ, this truth should remain in us.

Tomorrow we'll follow up on this and suggest a specific way you can witness to those around you.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 15:21-47
The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. - 1 Corinthians 1:18
TODAY IN THE WORD
On February 14, 1998, Danny Valentine promised his wife the ultimate Valentine's Day gift one of his own kidneys. Columnist Barbara Carmen tells the story of how Danny's wife, Kathy, needed a replacement for a previously transplanted kidney. She faced a seven-year wait, but doctors said she could survive on dialysis for only three years.

So in love, Danny volunteered to give Kathy one of his kidneys, and the operation took place last summer. Kathy says gratefully: 'First a life-mate, now the gift of life.'

As beautiful as Danny's gift of life was, Christ's gift of life, through His sacrifice on the cross, is even more beautiful and valuable.

Condemned by the Jewish council and the Roman government, Jesus is executed as a criminal. His hands and feet are nailed to a cross, which is lifted up so that all can see His punishment. Jesus bore this pain for the sins of the world, choosing not even to take a sedative (v. 23).

Several astonishing events accompany His crucifixion. Darkness descends for three hours nature itself is grieving. The curtain in the temple that blocks off the holiest place (cf. Exodus 26:31-33) is torn in two, signifying that any human being can now be a 'priest' with direct access to God (cf. Heb. 10:19-20; 1 Pet. 2:5, 9). And a Roman centurion, trained to order and discipline, decides that this condemned rebel is the Son of God and responds in faith (Mark 15:39)!

After Jesus has died, Joseph of Arimathea requests His body for burial. This is also rather remarkable a member of the Sanhedrin wanting to bury a dead convict! Joseph is apparently a secret believer (v. 43), like Nicodemus (John 3:1-21), and puts Jesus' body in a special tomb.

The faithful women who witnessed Jesus' crucifixion also mark where He is buried. They don't suspect what is about to happen!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Through His death and resurrection, Christ opened the way of eternal life to those who believe in Him (John 3:16). He 'tore the curtain' that separated humanity from God. Do your friends know this good news? What about your neighbors?

Here's a witnessing idea you might try in the near future. Make a list of perhaps 6-8 people in your life who are not believers. Invite them over for a showing and discussion of the Jesus video. (Copies may be easily bought or rented at many Christian bookstores.) Perhaps they will react like the centurion: 'Surely this man was the Son of God!' (Mark 15:39). Or, they may be interested in further studying the Bible with you.

Whatever the response, pray that the truth of Christ will be clearly communicated.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 16:1-8
[Jesus] was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead. - Romans 1:4
TODAY IN THE WORD
C. S. Lewis's allegorical fantasy The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is based on the Christian gospel. Four children journey through the doors of a wardrobe into a mythical country called Narnia.

Toward the end of the story, the lion Aslan, a Christ-figure, offers to give his life in exchange for that of one of the children, Edmund. By turning traitor, Edmund has forfeited his life to the White Witch. Delighted at the chance to eliminate their arch-enemy Aslan, the witch and her cohorts agree to the bargain. The great lion is ritually killed on top of a stone table. Has evil won?

Not at all. As dawn breaks, a great roar is heard and the stone table cracks in two. The children can hardly believe their eyes Aslan is alive again!

Similar amazement and rejoicing is found at the original Resurrection, which author Lewis has in mind that of our Lord Jesus Christ, who conquered death and is Himself the life (John 11:25; 14:6; Rom. 6:9).

Early Sunday morning, some of the women who had been with Jesus went to His tomb. With the Sabbath over, they wanted to show their love by anointing His body. They had no expectation of His resurrection instead, they worried over who would roll away the large stone at the entrance to the tomb.

There, they find the stone already moved, and an angel waiting for them. His message? 'You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen!' (v. 6). He instructs them to bring this fantastic news to the disciples and Peter.

Mark ends here, whereas the other Gospels add more details to the narrative. 'He has risen!' What more needs to be said? In the words of the hymn, 'Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!