Mark 1

Mark was not one of the original 12 disciples of Jesus.  Mark traveled with Peter, one of Jesus’ first followers and closest friends.  Mark wrote what he learned from Peter as Peter preached about Jesus to all who would listen.  Saint Irenaeus, one of the first great Christian theologians, wrote in A.D. 175, “Mark, the disciple and interpreter of Peter, also transmitted to us in writing the things preached by Peter.”  Of the four histories, Mark’s Gospel is the simplest, shortest and most direct presentation of Jesus’ life, written in the common language of the marketplace.  It focuses on facts more than on themes and on actions more than attitudes.  

Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:14-15 NKJV

To repent means to turn away from something that is not what God wants you to do, and instead turn and follow God.  Repent also means to think differently, reconsider, or to come to your senses.  What is it in your life that you need to turn away from?  Ask God to help you.  Ask for His forgiveness.  Trust that He will lead you away from whatever it is that you have been doing that is hindering your ability to have a joyful, productive life.  Jesus’ message is called the “Good News.”  The Good News is simply this: “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).  “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).  And finally: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).  Actually that is not just good news.  That’s great news!

Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. And Simon and those who were with Him searched for Him. When they found Him, they said to Him, ‘Everyone is looking for You.’” Mark 1:35-37 NKJV

Jesus got up early to be by Himself and to spend time with God in prayer.  It’s easy to be so caught up with life that we neglect times of solitude, individual worship, and prayer.  We need to learn from Jesus that regular times of prayer should be our #1 priority.  Prayer is vital and powerful.  Prayer should be kept simple.  There is no need to try to use big words to try to impress God.  Before we get out of bed every morning we should thank God for being in our lives and for the countless blessings He gives us.  What do you have to change in order to make time for regular prayer, the most powerful connection you can make with your Heavenly Father?