Mark 6:1–13
Be Still: Lord, would you reveal something unexpected as I go through your word today. Amen
Read: Mark 6:1–13
'Where did this man get these things?' they asked. 'What’s this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?' And they took offence at him.’ (v 2-3)
Encounter: Years ago, I was on a leadership panel alongside an older man. He had a thriving career and years of wisdom and practical experience in the topic. Then there was me, half his age, midway through my master’s, with a fraction of his bank balance and bucket loads of impostor syndrome.
When it was my turn to speak, he pulled out a notebook and pen from his bag. I asked, laughing, ‘Why would you take notes from me?’ He said, ‘I can learn from anyone.’ He wasn’t bound by assumptions, choosing instead a life of expectancy, one open to receiving from anywhere.
Jesus returns to his hometown, but instead of being received, he’s dismissed. Not because he lacked power but because the people knew of him, were familiar with those around him, and assumed nothing extraordinary could come from someone like him. Their assumptions capped Jesus’ ability to do what he could have done - ‘he could not do any miracles there’.
The Lord longs to speak to us and move around us, but it may not always be the way we assume (or prefer). Throughout Scripture, we see the Lord use unusual people - from a young kid with a small lunch, to a shepherd boy turned giant slayer. He also uses unusual things like burning bushes and talking donkeys (I’m not joking - read Numbers 22!). Maybe God wants to: teach you about finances using someone with a lower income, reveal things about your culture using someone from another, give you wisdom in your old age using someone younger. Let’s stay open and be people who do not let our judgment of another hinder the work of the Spirit.
Apply:
Who or what have you’ve been overlooking that the Lord wants to use to teach you?
Are there any assumptions you hold about the Lord that might limit the way you experience him?
Devote: Lord, I thank you that you are longing to reveal yourself in fresh ways. Help me to see you today, not just in the ways I expect, but also in surprising places.