Today's Reading: Mark 5-8
The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all they had done and taught. Mark 6: 30 NRSV
Jesus sent the disciples out in pairs to heal, exorcise, and call for repentance. While they are out doing the Lord's work, the gospel of Mark tells us of what happened to John. Then we come back to Jesus and see the disciples gathered around him, excitedly telling him all that they had done, all that had happened on their mission.
It is significant that the commissioning and ending celebration is interrupted by the story of John's death at the hands of a young girl. It reminds us that, even when we are doing the Lord's work, there is a certain understanding that this may not all have a happy ending. When we do as Jesus commands, we do put ourselves in danger, especially with those who are in power or who can influence those that have power.
No wonder Jesus follows up on this by trying, unsuccessfully I might add, to get away!
God, you give us your mission and your commandment to spread the gospel. We know what happened to John and what happened to Jesus. But we also know the real ending of the story. Keep us focused on that empty tomb, Lord! In Jesus' name. Amen.
Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims
Thank you for this devotion. It helps to be reminded that being a Christian is NOT about wealth and privilege - but about service and love.
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