Mark 9:14-29
Be Still: Lord, quiet the noise within me that I may hear your voice. Amen
Read: Mark 9:14-29
A man in the crowd answered, 'Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech.' (v 17)
Encounter: I hate camping! My dislike derives from a Year 8 camping trip. We arrived in glorious sunshine and had our tents up in no time. But over the next few days, the heavens opened, and the winds picked up. We packed down our tents in gale-force winds and sideways rain. Taking down the tent was way harder than putting it up.
Yesterday, we read about a mountain-top moment in Jesus’ ministry – the transfiguration. It was an incredible time when heaven met earth. Peter wanted to set up tents to live there permanently. But Jesus wouldn’t let him stay on the mountain; he had to pack away his tent, and today’s passage reveals why.
At the mountain's base, was a man whose son was suffering greatly; he had sought help everywhere to no avail. He needed Jesus. It had been amazing on the mountain, but if they'd stayed there, the boy would have continued to suffer.
Sometimes, as God’s people, taking down the tent is harder than putting it up. We are quick to gather to worship but forget that Jesus calls us to witness. We love to be in God’s presence, but we’re slower to carry that presence into the world where we live.
I’m so glad you’re taking a moment to read God’s Word but this passage ought to challenge us: we are to be Word-shaped people so that we become world-shaping people. The purpose of mountain-top encounters is, in part, to empower us to descend and meet the needs of those suffering at the bottom.
There is also encouragement; the disciples didn’t descend the mountain alone. Jesus descended too. And as we leave our moments of intentionally seeking him, he – through his Holy Spirit – goes with us. When we face challenges beyond us, we can call on the name of Jesus, and then, we will see him do incredible things.
Apply: Ask the Holy Spirit to give you eyes to see the need around you he wants you to meet.
Devote: Thank you for your presence – help me to carry you into the world.