09-14-19

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS

September 14, 2019

Scripture: Mark 9:9

As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them to tell no one about what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead.

Thought for the Day: I love each of the Gospels for the unique gift each of them brings to the larger story of Jesus, but I must confess the special place I have for Mark’s Gospel. I think it is because Mark’s Gospel was the place where I first started to understand the complexity of scripture, as each Gospel had a different messenger and a different audience. Mark has this notable quality called the Messianic Secret. At key moments in the ministry of Jesus, the very moment when the events should wow the crowds and word should spread, Jesus tells folks, “tell no one.” You have this amazing experience at a restaurant, and you call for the manager so you can brag on your server and the food, and the manager thanks you for your comment and then says, “And please tell no one.” It makes no sense. In Mark’s Gospel, everything hinges on the resurrection. The Son of Man (probably better translated as the model human being) must first rise from the dead, and then you can begin sharing the message. It’s as if understand miracles and special happenings will only be comprehended fully through the prism of the resurrection. If you think about it, resurrection is a bit of a game changer for every aspect of life.

Prayer: Provide me, Holy God, with adequate vision to see all the hints and glimpses of new life and rebirth that are before me. Let me embrace this gift for myself so that I live as one reborn into your life of love. Amen.

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