THE WORDS OF JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF MARK

Introduction

We are so glad you are joining us for these daily prayer devotionals as together we seek the heart of our God. Over the coming weeks, we will focus on some of the most meaningful words of our savior Jesus Christ from the book of Mark, as we follow his journey with his disciples on the path toward the cross. Our journey of prayer and fasting will culminate on Easter Sunday as we celebrate His resurrection, declaring victory over sin, death and shame.

Each devotion will take less than ten minutes of your time.

1. We will Engage the Word – looking at some of Jesus’ words in their biblical context.
2. We will Connect the Heart – considering a truth that is applicable to our lives.
3. We will Reflect on the Truth, asking a number of questions each day that invite us to look and listen with intent.
4. And we will Depend on the Spirit – We will pray, for it is in praying that we learn to pray. And it is in praying that the Spirit changes our hearts.

We want to encourage you to grab a journal or a notebook – something to write on as you walk through each prayer guide. Yes, it will add a few minutes to the time it takes to do the devotion, and it will also deepen your experience and shape your walk with God for years to come. This journal or notebook will be a keepsake to remind you of God’s faithfulness during this challenging season for all of us.

Engage the Word

 Mark 4:21-23

 

       21     And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand?

       22     For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light.

       23     If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”

Connect the Heart

Following yesterday’s parable about sowing seed of faith in various soils, Jesus provides this parable of what people do with a lamp. A popular kids’ song sung in churches for generations is “This Little Light of Mine.” It asks a simple but important question about this little light: “Hide it under a bushel? No! I’m gonna let it shine!” We don’t all need to preach from street corners to let our lights shine and let the light of our lives be a lamp for others. A lamp is meant to be seen – and to provide light for all those around. So is our faith.

Reflect on the Truth

1. Are you letting fear of social awkwardness convince you to hide your faith? In the kids’ song, they sing “Won’t let Satan blow it out; no, I’m gonna let it shine!” How might you let your light shine in your neighborhood? Where you work? Where you do life?

2. Actions are more powerful than words. Would people guess that you’re a Christ-follower, even if you never uttered a word?

3. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see the deeper longings, desires or motives in your heart that these thoughts are pointing to. (for example: you may write down, “It’s difficult to be bold with my faith at times. I don’t know what to say. But I want to follow you. I need your help, Lord.”) The Lord can help us discern the path forward – through His word, His Spirit, His people.

4. What habits do you have or might you build that let all around “hear” Christ’s love manifest in you?

Depend on the Spirit

Pray to let others see the light within you and for the Holy Spirit to provide courage to let your light shine brighter. Pray for others to see the joy of the salvation that Jesus offers in your daily life.

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