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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion March 21, 2007 Ready |
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Frontline Devotion for Wednesday, March 21, 2007 by Penny Risen
Mark : 46-52 to Mark 11:1-11
“Ready” is an exciting, charged-up word filled with promise and anticipation:
“Flight 1120 to Chicago is ready for boarding at Gate 3A,” we hear as my son prepares to take off for graduate school.
”Are you ready?” my dad whispers while we stand in the church narthex, prepared to process down the aisle for my wedding.
“Get ready --- Go!” a trail guide shouts as he pushes my niece forward for a fast zip-chord ride through the rainforest canopy.
As we reach the halfway point in our devotional journey through the Gospel of Mark, Jesus seems ready at every turn in His mission. Traveling dusty miles with His chosen disciples, Jesus words and actions attract bigger crowds as well as the attention of Pharisees and temple officials who don’t appreciate this radical, charismatic preacher. To the people His words hold promise, but to Jewish authorities they mean trouble in managing their stalemate with the Roman rulers.
In reading the narrative of Jesus’ time on earth, it’s often difficult to witness things falling into place. Even if we don’t know each Gospel chapter and verse, or every story of healing and amazing preaching, we know what’s coming: His capture and humiliation, His betrayal, His sacrifice and death, and finally His triumph. The Passion is a powerful and awesome story. But it’s the small miracles and joyful moments that can grab us too.
In today’s two passages, Jesus’ readiness permeates His every move. No longer reluctant about crowds witnessing His healings, Jesus seldom turns away anyone who sincerely and humbly approaches Him. The cries of a blind beggar find Him ready with mercy and love: “On your way. Your faith has saved and healed you,” Jesus says.
In today’s two passages, Jesus’ readiness permeates His every move. No longer reluctant about crowds witnessing His healings, Jesus seldom turns away anyone who sincerely and humbly approaches Him. The cries of a blind beggar find Him ready with mercy and love: “On your way. Your faith has saved and healed you,” Jesus says.
But we realize He also is ready to take on the awesome responsibility for which He was sent by God the Father: To die for our sins. The authorities will find someone who is prepared to betray Jesus, leading to His arrest and punishment.
Prayer for the day: Dear Lord, I know You withheld nothing for the sick and sinners. Although I daily accept Your countless blessings, I’m seldom ready to praise and thank you. Help me to be prepared to give back and to remember those who cry for mercy. Guide me to act as a “helper” instead of being only a “taker.” Amen.
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry on the "Frontlines" of the world. Frontline Devotions are sent via email daily. Sign up by clicking on the box to the left. Pastor Dave welcomes feedback. Contact him at pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org. |
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