01-13-21

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ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
January 13, 2021
Scripture: Mark 1:13
Jesus was in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.

Thought for the Day: I think most of us would describe Jesus as a pretty put together individual, even some Christian Leadership Books portray him as the stellar CEO type. Yet reread this verse from Mark, and notice that Jesus does absolutely nothing in this part of the story. He is passive or neutral through it all, or at least that’s how the four movements of this verse describe it. Of course, this will soon change as Jesus will begin preaching and acting in the world in the next few verses. It almost appears as if Mark wanted the reader to know how Jesus still needed to be made ready for what was to come. You do not step into the world unprepared, or the world will chew you up and spit you out. Many have suggest this is true in regard to the business world, but it sounds as if Mark wants his readers to understand how it is true when it comes to the life of faith. Too often Christianity is characterized as simple and easy, just believe and the good life will be handed to you on a silver platter. This is why, at least in my opinion, many Christian folks have found themselves sucked into some pretty dark places in the last few years, down some pretty strange paths that do not align with the life of Jesus. For even Jesus, according to Mark, needed some prep time. And if Jesus needed such work, we all probably need it and some refresher courses on a regular basis.

Prayer: May I never be naive, O Spirit of the Wilderness, when it comes to the life of faith and its many challenges. Provide me with opportunities where you make me ready for what might come my way. Above all things, I want to honor you with my life witness. Amen.

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