The early days of Jesus’ ministry are filled with many demands as crowds gather at his teaching and healing, but at the same time Jesus finds time to rest and pray. As we enter a new year, will we be faithful in finding balance between action and time for renewal?
Worship this week with Holy Communion:
Saturday – 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. Traditional worship
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
10:30 a.m. Contemporary worship
Devotions for this week:
Jesus ministry begins January 2-3, 2016
At once his fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee. Mark 1:28
As Mark tells it, Jesus launches into ministry from the very beginning. Immediately on the Sabbath, he enters the synagogue, starts teaching and casting out demons. Next they go to Simon’s home, and Jesus heals Simon’s mother-in law. On the same day, the whole town shows up seeking healing. The next day he heals a man with a skin disease. It seems there is not to be a moment’s rest. Yet in the midst of the rush, Jesus takes time to be still and pray.
Read: Sunday, Mark 1:21-45, Jesus’ Ministry Begun
Monday, Psalm 103:1-5
Tuesday, Isaiah 42:10-20, A Hymn of Praise
Wednesday, Psalm 2
Thursday, Psalm 113
Friday, Psalm 146:5-10
Saturday, Psalm 108:1-4
What do you read in these Psalms and Isaiah that might suggest that Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies?
- What was the mood of Jesus’ ministry when he first began? Pay attention to the shift in perspective over the three years of his ministry as we travel from his baptism to the cross to resurrection from now until Easter.
- Why do you think Jesus spent time and energy healing the sick and casting out demons? What work is there to be done in your community?
Do: Jesus took time from his busy mission to be still and to pray. Set aside time each day this week to be still and to pray. If stillness is a challenge for you, try praying while walking, doing yoga, or even dancing.
Bless: May God speak to you in the noise and in the quiet. Amen.
