Join In The Journey

This past week we took a look at the first 24 hours that four men - Simon, Andrew, James, and John chose to follow Jesus (Mark 1:21-39). Feel good religion tells us that as soon as we follow Jesus everything becomes easy. I wish it were true, but it didn't seem that way for these four. They started with a grand entrance into the religious institution of the day (synagogue). Jesus did a fantastic job of speaking and even healed a man possessed by a demon. I imagine it was quite a start.

However, the day got more complicated. They went home for lunch to Simon's and his mother-in-law was sick. Of course Jesus healed her. Then when they tried to settle down for the night the whole town was at their door. Sometimes a town's attention can be thrilling, but this was the sick and demon possessed that were at Simon's home until the late hours.

Yet, the excitement was growing. The next morning Jesus got up before the sun for some time of prayer. I imagine he just wanted to have a moment alone. A moment was all He got because Simon came to Him with the demands of the crowd.

Jesus responded by defining His mission. He was sent to preach. He was for all men. He would not let the crowds determine His agenda. Nor would he ignore their needs.

What is your journey like? Has it been all you expected? Has it been more? Has it been less? Does your phone always ring? Is your inbox full and unanswered?

Maybe, Jesus has some answers for our life of surprising journeys? His answer is a clear definition of one's mission. Also, He calls us to practice the disciplines of both silence and community. We substitute loneliness and activity.

Will you join me on this journey?

This coming Sunday we'll deal with some more mysteries of Jesus.

I hope to see you then.

Dave