How it Works
Simply follow the reading schedule and read daily passages from the Gospel of Mark. After you’ve read the passage, visit the website or social media post and read the reflection from the facilitator for that day. Within the social media posts, you can engage in moderated comments and discussion with others who are on the reading journey with you. It will be a great opportunity for participants to share insights and encouragement from God’s word with each other.

Daily Reflections
The heart and soul of this journey can be found in the daily reflections. We believe that God’s word can and does speak to us, both individually and corporately. Sometimes a particular verse, Bible character, or story leaps out to us from the pages of our Bible in very real and meaningful ways. Daily reflections are a way to capture those moments of significance for ourselves and then share with others. We encourage believers from all places along the spiritual path to write down their insights and inspirations in a reading journal. Seasoned believers, youth, new believers, those called to ministry – all have something meaningful to share.

A reflection may come in a wide range of expressions. It may be something very specific to one’s life. It may be connecting this passage with other truths in the Bible. It may be seeing something interesting about God’s nature and how He moves and works in the world. The most important thing about these daily reflections is that they help the reader to find meaning in God’s word that is relevant and applicable to his or her life.

A reflection doesn’t need to be long. It may be a sentence or two; two or three paragraphs are plenty. Take one big idea from the passage and share a thought or two about it. Sometimes the most powerful reflections are questions. Feel free to ask “what does this mean?” if you’d like. Or perhaps a particular story has special meaning to you because you see yourself in it. Testimonies are also a great way to reflect on God’s word.

As you take this 40-day journey with us, we need you to pick a day to be a facilitator and share your reflection with the other readers. We are all blessed and encouraged when we share together what God is saying to us through His word. Sign up for your day by contacting Pastor David or adding your name to a time slot on the 40 Days poster in the church foyer. You will receive confirmation of your chosen day with instructions about when and how to submit your reflections.

Day 1

Mark 1:1-15; Jesus' ministry begins

The opening statement of the Gospel of Mark proclaims that Jesus is the Son of God.

Mark lived in one of the most exciting yet terrifying eras in human history. Mark was probably a teenager at the time of Jesus’ ministry.

Mark begins his book introducing John the Baptist, known as the forerunner of Jesus (this is a fulfillment of OT Scriptures found in Isaiah and Malachi).

John the Baptist preached a baptism of repentance and obedience to water baptism.  Jesus came to him to be baptized in the Jordan River. During His baptism, God acknowledged His own Son calling Him “my Beloved Son!” Notice that the “Trinity” was present at the baptism of Jesus (verses 10, 11). Today, we as Christians follow Jesus’ example in water baptism and we are recognized as “God’s own sons and daughters and God is well pleased with us.”

Mark then tells of Jesus’ going into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan for 40 days. He was not alone. The angels ministered to Him. We, too, must sometimes go through the wilderness in life experiences and are tempted. But we are never tempted beyond what God has allowed. And never doubt that God will send you help!. We never go through them alone.

After Jesus had overcome Satan’s temptation, He began to immediately preach “the Kingdom of God is near.” “Repent and believe the Good News.”

Each one of us has a testimony to share how God has saved us and changed us and how we can know He is always near.

Day 4

Mark 2:1-17; the paralytic; Levi

Tony Ballard

Day 5

Mark 2:18-28; fasting & the Sabbath

Pastor Juliana Barnett

The Pharisees were known for strictly following the rules of fasting. They were perplexed as to why Jesus’ disciples did not follow the same fasting regimen. Jesus answered this question with a question - “Can the friends of the bridegroom fast while the bridegroom is with them?”  In the days of Jesus some Jewish leaders declared that if the observance of any Jewish law hindered a celebration, then the Jewish people did not have to keep the law. Jesus clearly indicates that He is the symbolic bridegroom – the Messiah – and whenever Jesus is present, it should be a moment of celebration.

Jesus uses the term “wineskins” to explain the difference between the old, religious law and customs and the new promise of salvation that Jesus offers. In verses 21 & 22 Jesus explains that it is not reasonable to sew a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment because the patch will tear away and make the tear much worse. Likewise, Jesus explains that no one puts new wine into old wineskins because the same thing will happen; the wine will burst the old skins and the wine will be useless. Jesus’ point is that one needs new life which can only come from Jesus’ salvation. One can’t fit a sanctified new life into the old forms. In essence, Jesus offers His salvation and creates new life within us!

In Mark 2:23-28, Jesus’ disciples are chastised by the Pharisees for eating grain on the Sabbath. Jesus challenges the Pharisees and recalls the time when David and those traveling with him were hungry. David enters the temple and eats the Bread of Presence. Jesus’ point? God desires mercy before sacrifice and love over religious tradition. Jesus was not bound by Jewish rules. If Jesus wasn’t offended by his disciples’ actions, then nobody else should be offended either.

Day 6

Mark 3:1-19; great crowds

Tony Ballard

MARK 3:1-6
Jesus was in synagogue and was being tested by Pharisees and Herodians about healing a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath. Jesus, of course, healed the man but confronted their hardness of heart. Why would He not heal on the Sabbath? They got very angry and looked for a way to destroy Him.

REFLECTION:  Jesus is always compassionate to those in need. He was not about to let this man lose his healing because these men were being religious and political instead of compassionate. Jesus can get angry but His was always a righteous anger.  Too many times mankind just did not see things as God does, they looked through eyes of flesh, whereas Jesus always saw God’s will.

Mark 3:6-12
Jesus was healing and casting out demons, and the crowds were becoming too much. He had to separate Himself and go to a boat. But even the unclean spirits begged for mercy knowing He had authority over them.

REFLECTION:  Jesus was being physically torn to pieces and needed to separate for some peace, but Hhe made sure the evil spirits knew He was in charge of them and they were to be quiet.

MARK 3:13-19
Jesus appointed 12 men to preach and have authority to cast out demons.

REFLECTION: It was time that these men helped the ministry, even Judas. It is amazing that the authority from Jesus could give these men such wisdom to preach the gospel and have authority over demons.

Day 7

Mark 3:20-35; a house divided

Lynn Stanley

Jesus speaks a parable after being called Beelzebub by the scribes because He healed people.

The first line He speaks to them on this issue is: “How can Satan outcast Satan?” (NKJ) Talk about getting right to the point!

Through the age of time houses have been divided. These days, I would say it’s an epidemic. Houses are divided because of divorce, alcohol, drugs, infidelity, and a host of many other sins. Each member of the household is affected by a divided house, especially children.

Jesus ends this teaching with the unpardonable sin; which is blaspheming the Holy Spirit. This is the only sin that is unforgivable. Some of us may not know what the unpardonable sin is exactly. Because of that, Satan will hold us in bondage convincing us that we have committed that sin. Satan is a liar!

This is how the unpardonable sin was described to me: you turn your back on the Holy Spirit, rejecting Him to live as the world lives. Completely disregarding who you once were in Jesus Christ.

Day 8

Mark 4:1-20; parable of the Sower

Charity Rummel

Every “seed” has a different journey. Don’t compare where your “seed” is or has been to others. We all live life in such different ways which makes it so much more beautiful when we get to testify how awesome our God is. How can you use where you were first planted to show how your life has fully changed? Are you able to forget about where you may have been planted in order to grow in a new foundation? You must confront your past that made you unclean, repent, and ask for forgiveness. Live your life off of Him and His guidance, not the worlds.

Mark 4:13-20: (16) The enemy is able to take full control over this one’s life; however, when they have the opportunity to learn of Him they accept it with joy. (17) We MUST listen and read the word and LIVE IT. DWELL IN IT. Without knowing power of scripture, what will you do in times of trouble or persecution? (18) Idols. Idols. Idols. I believe that most basis for sin is an idol. What do you think of and value more of than the Lord that created you and everything around you? Are you reading the word and not living it out? (20) THIS should be our goal. We need to have a firm foundation (a.k.a.: HIM). Bear your fruit and show His love off to everyone around you.”

Day 9

Mark 4:21-41; parables of lamps and seeds; faith

Ben Kapuya

These scriptures are a reminder that we need to focus on God in every step of our lifetime.  As a Christian we need to understand the point below:

1.     Being sincere. No hypocrisy.

A Christian must show his true face always. Do not be double faced. In the daylight people are seeing you as a devoted Christian. A good man, a good citizen, amiable and joyful. But once it is nighttime the false Christian arise. GOD is seeing you. They're not secret for God. You better show your true face in front of God, because everything will be revealed and you will be in trouble. God calls us to be sincere and true.

2.     Do not feed your mind with bad things but listen for God's voice in everything.

A lot of Christians minimize the impact of listening to bad things. Do not cope with anti-Christian literature, anti-Christian music or anything that is pushing you to go away from God's magnetism sight. Our mind is like a memory card; once you allow a virus into it the device is corrupted. Do not compromise your brain with bad things like pornography or violence. This is a call to regularly read your Bible. Take time to meditate and to pray.

3.     Trust God in everything.

Our life with Jesus Christ can start by baby steps but God is in control for the grown. God is telling us that He is a promise keeper. Everything you plant according to His will and guidance is under His responsibility. He asks you to follow His steps. The rest is His business. When you pray for someone or are in any bad situation, you trust God. He is listening. Keep up your faith, God is working. He never lets His children down.

4. Through the storm when Jesus is on the boat fear nothing.

Life is made up of difficult times. Even if we have Jesus, our human nature does not let us not to worry. Sometimes this worry can turn to desperation as the issue grows. The disciples tried to solve the problem by themselves but there was no way to stop a storm until it stopped itself. It means for us to stop worrying about something we cannot control. They wake up Jesus. Then He stopped the storm. In difficult times call Jesus Christ.

Day 10

Mark 5:1-20 - a man with a demon

Pastor David Barnett

Why did the Gerasenes ask Jesus to leave them after He had delivered the man with unclean spirits? We need to understand the historical/cultural context.

This people group is mentioned multiple times throughout the Bible with different name variants – Gerasene, Gergesene, Gadarene, and in the Old Testament, Girgashite. Who were these people?

First, they were one of the Canaanite tribes, frequently mentioned in connection with the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites. Their land was on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, east of the Jordan River, and was disputed territory with Israel’s half-tribe of Manasseh. In other words, they were historical enemies with Israel.

In the Roman occupation, this area was part of the Decapolis – literally “ten cities” – that were on the trade routes to Damascus. The inhabitants were primarily Arabic. These were not Jewish lands by any measure. These people were Gentiles.

The significance of Jesus’ trip across the See of Galilee to minister in the Decapolis is that this was Jesus’ first outreach to Gentiles with the message that God’s kingdom had come. Literally as He stepped out of the boat, Jesus was confronted with demonic opposition. He overcame it, and in the process He allowed a significant asset to be destroyed. The herd of pigs were not wild – they were cultivated, tended by herdsmen (v. 14). In Jewish law, these pigs were unclean, just as the spirits that possessed them were unclean. But to the Gerasenes, the pigs were a resource – both to eat and to sell.

The reason the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave isn’t clearly stated. But the historical context suggests that they would have perceived Jesus as an enemy. Instead of seeing the miracle of a possessed man set free from a life of spiritual bondage, they chose to see Jesus as a disruptor of their business and their lives. They asked Him to leave before He could do any more harm to their way of life. But Jesus left a witness of who He really was and what He could do. The delivered man testified of Jesus throughout the Decapolis (v. 20).

Day 11

Mark 5:21-43; Jairus' daughter

[Today's reflection is an excerpt from the teaching of the late Chuck Smith, a noted pastor and Bible teacher]

Jairus, one of the rulers of the synagogue there in Capernaum, came to Jesus, driven by desperation...Probably the easiest way to get to the heart of a man is through his children. To see our children sick, to see them suffering, moves us more than almost anything else. And to see his little daughter dying, we are told that she was about twelve years old. We are also told in another gospel that she was their only little girl. And so, for twelve years she had brought sunshine, life and blessing into the home, as only little girls can do. But now the father's heart is breaking. It's obvious that his little girl is dying, nothing can be done. They have only one hope… “Please come. My little daughter is at the point of death. Just lay Your hand on her and she will be healed.” He knew that Jesus could bring healing even to this condition of the point of death.

“And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, and had suffered many things of many physicians…” According to Jewish law, her husband could not touch her as long as she was hemorrhaging. According to Jewish law, everything she touched was unclean. Whoever touched her would be unclean. Whoever would touch anything she touched would be unclean. Finally, according to Jewish law, she could not enter the place of worship as long as she was hemorrhaging. She was ceremonially unclean. And for twelve years, she lived in the shadow of darkness.

With Jairus, twelve years he had lived in the sunshine of this beautiful little girl, the light she brought into her home. But the light was going out. With the woman, twelve years she was living in the shadow of this ostracized condition, but a ray of light was shining, a hope. “I know if I can just but touch Him, His garment, I will be healed.”

Day 12

Mark 6:1-13; Jesus' ministry rejected

Pastor Juliana Barnett

In Mark 6:1-6, Jesus’ journeys took Him and the disciples back to Jesus’ hometown. On the Sabbath, Jesus taught in the synagogue, and many were amazed at His teaching and wisdom. He also performed miracles. Because of their familiarity with Jesus, the people of His hometown took offense and did not believe that one of their own could perform mighty works of healing. Jesus was troubled by their unbelief. The people of Nazareth still thought of Jesus as a lowly carpenter and this label discredited His divine message and abilities in the eyes of His hometown. Jesus, the anointed Son of God, left Nazareth as a carpenter but came back as a Rabbi.

In Mark 6:7-13 Jesus didn’t need the latest technology to preach a simple message. Jesus gave simple yet strict instructions to His disciples as He began to send them to other towns. Jesus was very specific as to how the disciples should accomplish this. Jesus emphasized traveling light and solely trusting on God’s power to accomplish His will. Jesus gave them authority over unclean spirits, told them to take nothing with them except their staff, and not to bring money or food. Jesus also instructed the disciples to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He told his disciples to stay where they were welcomed, but if anyone would not listen to their message, they should shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against them. In this culture, if Jewish people had to travel through a Gentile city, they would shake the dust off their feet symbolizing their refusal to take anything from a Gentile city with them. Even through adversity, the disciples preached repentance, cast out demons, anointed the sick, and healed them.

Day 13

Mark 6:14-29; death of John the Baptist

Lance Rummel

I’m struck by the audacity, both good and bad, that abounds in the story of John’s beheading.

First, John has the audacity (intrepid boldness) to stand against King Herod regarding his marriage to Herodias. Other Jewish leaders wouldn’t oppose Herod in this; John alone did. Therefore, John was imprisoned.

Herod knew John was a righteous and holy man (v.20). King Herod feared, protected, and liked to listen to John. Despite this, Herod’s wife had great influence over him and he imprisoned John to appease her. That’s an audacious (bold or arrogant disregard of normal constraints) move, but only the tip of the audacity iceberg.

When Herodias’s daughter danced and pleased Herod and his dinner guests, his reward to her was “anything she wanted up to half his kingdom.” Are you kidding me? Think about that for a minute. The audacity continues with the daughter asking the mother what she should ask for. The mother tells her daughter to ask for the head of John. And she does it! Can you imagine going to the king, your uncle, who is also now your stepfather, and asking for a man’s head on a platter?

The Bible tells us Herod was greatly distressed over this request, but despite this, he had John beheaded immediately and had the head presented to the girl, who then presented it to her mother. Why did he go through with this audacious request? He did it because he did not want to renege on the oaths he made in the presence of his dinner guests. He would not stand for righteousness because it would make him look weak. Audacity and peer pressure were the tools used to kill arguably one of the holiest men to ever live.

Think about the audacity and peer pressure we see every day in our society, on social media, other media outlets, and in other areas of your own life, maybe even within the church. If we are not careful to guard ourselves, these things will dull our spiritual swords and quench our relationships with God.

Live audaciously for God. Stand audaciously against evil. Love audaciously with the love of Christ.

Day 14

Mark 6:30-44; feeding 5,000

Gabriela Royer

Part 1 of 2

The first time I read the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000, I was about 7 years old. Back then, my biggest takeaway is how Jesus performed such tremendous miracles during His time on earth. Although this is very true, reading it as I have matured in my faith has given me so many more takeaways and lessons.

Here is a summary of the passage: One day, Jesus was teaching His apostles and an abundance of other people who lived in nearby towns. Jesus compared these people as “sheep without a shepherd” so he began teaching them His ways. It was getting late and His disciples suggested that Jesus send the people away to buy something to eat for themselves. Jesus replied, “You will give them something to eat.” Immediately, the disciples started discussing how much money this would cost and how long it would take to earn the money to feed all of these people. Jesus replied by asking, “how many loaves?” The disciples discovered there were 5 loaves and 2 fish. Jesus then had the people sit in groups of hundreds and fifties. He looked into heaven, broke the bread, and prayed to give thanks. After the prayer, the disciples distributed the food. Not only were the people well fed and satisfied, there were 12 baskets of leftovers! 5,000 men were fed and even more were fed including women and children!

When looking at the lessons I can apply to my life, these are the takeaways I have received. The first one is God's abundance and generosity. Jesus was able to take 5 loaves and 2 fish and feed an absolute multitude of people (with leftovers) who were seeking to know Him deeper. Jesus has the capacity to meet not just our physical needs, but our spiritual hunger as well. We must answer the call to give Jesus all that we have, just like the loaves and fish, and Jesus will provide for us in abundance!

Part 2 of 2

A second lesson that we can apply to our daily lives is putting our faith and trust in Jesus at all times, especially when the world makes us doubt. In this story, the disciples' immediate response was to analyze the logistics of how much it was going to cost to feed all of these people and how much labor they would have to put in to even afford the cost. Their response represents the human response to limitations and doubts we face in life every day. The way Jesus responds to His disciples (asking what they have, giving thanks to the Lord and breaking the bread) shows how Jesus always has a plan for us and we must put our trust in Him. Jesus' instruction teaches us about faith and resilience in God's mighty power, even when situations in our lives seem impossible. With God, nothing is impossible!

Lastly, this story can be a call to action for us to participate in the work of the kingdom. This story shows us that we should give our all to Jesus, no matter how little it may seem, and trust God to multiply into something beautiful to further the kingdom of God!

Thank you for reading!

Day 15

Mark 6:45-56; walking on water

Naomi Philip

Three points that come to mind when reading this scripture are you are never out of God’s sight, you are never out of God’s reach, and you are never out of God’s care. God will always care for you and protect you. We need to be able to step out in faith and let God take care of the rest. God is the omniscient, omnipresent, and the omnipotent.

Day 16

Mark 7:1-23; traditions and commandments

Faye Bertelmann

The Pharisees in this passage were shown to be guilty of the same fault as some people are today: equating tradition or legalism with God's commandments.  God had given only 10 commandments, but Jewish traditions had expanded them into hundreds of rules that a devout Jew was expected to observe.  These rules included when and what to eat, how to "honor" God by neglecting parents, and many extreme steps to maintain outward cleanliness.  

Jesus made it very clear that these man-made regulations were hypocritical.  Followers were honoring God, so they thought, with words and actions that were contrary to what God had intended, and there was no love behind these traditions at all.  They were in bondage to a statement we still hear sometimes today, "but we've always done it this way!"  Jesus called this all vain worship.  

We need to be careful, first of all, about the traditions we accept and follow and second, about those we expect others to observe.  We must allow the Holy Spirit to show us the right things to say and do to please the Lord and not man.  Remember that "man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." (I Samuel 16:7)

Day 17

Mark 7:24-37; Syrophoenician woman; deaf man

Day 18

Mark 8:1-21; feeding 4,000

DaLana Barsanti

Part 1 of 2

There are many recorded instances where large crowds gathered around Jesus. The Bible tells of the masses who traveled great distances just to get a glimpse of Him and hear Him speak. On two such occasions, the massive crowd had been with Jesus for multiple days and He felt compassion for them because He knew many had been without food. The people wanted so desperately to listen to him teach, they were willing to stay as long as He was there. Imagine traveling miles from home with no plan for accommodation or food. You began your journey in faith, never contemplating a negative outcome. You were so desperate to hear His life-changing words that it was worth any risk.

On this occasion, the crowd of four thousand had been gathered for three days. Jesus was concerned because He knew many had not prepared to stay as long as they did. He was afraid to send them home without nourishment because the journey back would cause many to be frail, weak, and perhaps collapse. He summoned His disciples and asked how much bread they had. They answered “seven loaves and a few small fish.”   He instructed the crowd to be seated and then He gave thanks for the loaves and fish. Then the disciples began distributing the food to the massive crowd. After everyone was full, the disciples were able to collect seven baskets of left-over food.  Jesus sent the crowd away to make their journey back home and He made his way to Dalmanutha.

Jesus was close to His destination when He was met by a group of Pharisees, who questioned Him. They even asked for a sign from Him. "He sighed deeply and said, "Why does this generation ask for a sign? Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to it". He got back in the boat and continued to the other side. While in the boat the disciples realized they had forgotten to bring bread for the rest of the journey. They discovered one loaf but it was made with yeast of the Pharisees.  Jesus warned them not to partake of such bread.

Part 2 of 2

The disciples were whispering amongst themselves and Jesus overheard.  Jesus responded to their grumblings by asking them why they were concerned with having no bread. He reminded them of the five loaves and two fish that fed the five thousand. Then, He reminded them of the seven loaves he used to feed the four thousand. He asked, "After the crowds were fed, how many baskets were left over?" Then He asked them,  Do you not see or understand?"  "Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear?" "Are your hearts so hardened?"

I must say this passage hits me hard. I am sad and embarrassed to say I have been both the Pharisees and the doubting disciples in my life. I have cried out in desperation and shaken my fist to the sky asking God for a sign. Much like the Pharisees, I thought I was owed some kind of "proof" that He is who he says He is. And much like His response to the Pharisees in this passage, He was kind but firm. He reminded me, I will not give you a sign. You must trust me because I AM WHO I SAY I AM!   The disciples witnessed Him perform miracles and were afraid He would not take care of them. I have been in church my whole life. I have seen the lame walk. I have witnessed miracles. And yet, I still doubt He will take care of me.

I want to be more like the masses. I want to travel the distance, not concerned with the outcome because I KNOW, He will provide. He is still a miracle-working God. His promises are the same today as they were then.  His compassion for me is the same as it was for the weary travelers.

As believers we need to stop looking for signs. We need to be more like those travelers who were willing to risk everything to follow Christ. Through trials and struggles, He has remained faithful.  And I believe miracles are awaiting those who trust in Him!

Day 19

Mark 8:22-38; Peter's confession

Jerri Bradshaw

Part 1 of 2

Blind Man Healed at Bethsaida v.22-26

This is the 2nd personal healing that Jesus does, emphasizing that Jesus enjoys a personal touch and relationship with people. And again, it was some people who brought the man to Jesus. And again, Jesus used "spit" in touching the man's blind eyes. The man's healing came in phases…he saw a little at first and then when "he looked up" he saw clearly.

Key thoughts:

Jesus is a personal God who touches His people.

Other people brought the man to Jesus. This is a remarkable indication that we are to "bring people" to Jesus!

Healing comes in stages. This indicates that our understanding of God and His laws comes in stages as we grow in the Word and seek Him.

When the man looked up finally He could see clearly. This is an indication that if we look up we too shall see where our salvation comes from and we will see clearly!!

Part 2 of 2

Peter Confesses Jesus as Christ, v. 23-38

As they walk on the road, Jesus asks the Disciples, "Who do men say that I am?"  Some answered, you are "this one or that one", but Peter said, "You are the Christ."  He could only conclude that Jesus was indeed the Christ! He had seen the Miracles which left little doubt in Peter's eyes.

Later Jesus begins to tell them that He will be rejected by the Priests/elders and would die and rise after 3 days. Peter was not pleased to hear this and  took Jesus aside and rebuked the Lord! Jesus turned to Peter and rebuked him and told the disciples they were mindful of men and not of God! When Jesus said, "Satan  get thee behind me" He was telling  Peter to "get back in line" along with other disciples. Jesus' desire was not their state of “Human bondage” but their 'Spiritual bondage". They needed their "bondages of sin" removed, not the removal from "Political oppression".

All of this took place in Caesarea Philippi, deep into the heart of Gentile territory. Why did Jesus want to reveal Himself as Israel's Messiah in Gentile territory and not in Jerusalem in the midst of His chosen People and Nation?

Key Thoughts:

Peter had lost sight of his earlier conviction that Jesus is the Christ! Knowing God's Word helps keep a proper perspective on Who He Is! Who do you say that He is?

Peter was influenced by the enemy and Jesus knew this and sometimes the Lord has to rebuke us as He knows the flesh is weak.  Peter and the Disciples had an earthly (fleshly) kingdom in mind and not the Kingdom (Spiritual) of God. They wanted out from under Rome's control.  

Peter did not have a complete understanding of Who Jesus was. Understanding comes with time and reading/teaching the Word. We are all a work in progress.

Why expose "Who He was" in a Gentile country? Perhaps to remind us not to stay in our city/protected environment, etc. but to go to the neediest end of the earth!

The key verse for us is found in vs. 36: "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?'

Day 20

Mark 9:1-13; the Transfiguration

Dan Titus

Jesus is going to reveal the kingdom of God to some of his followers in power.

Throughout the book of Mark, Peter, James, and John go with Jesus to various places alone. These three men are Jesus’ closest friends. There was a relationship that could not be separated. They loved Jesus and Jesus saw them as special.

Jesus was transfigured before them. No one else experienced this event. Jesus speaks with Moses and Elijah. Why were the disciples rattled? Was it because Jesus was transfigured or because they saw the two famous men in Judaism’s history?

Peter decides that they do not want to leave there. The mountain top must be God’s will. They have arrived. It only makes sense. Jesus’ closest friends and the leaders of Judaism are all in one place. Is that how we determine God’s will?

God issues a verbal response. “Listen to Jesus. He has something to share with you.” The closest friends are corrected. Now let’s talk theology. Elijah must return. Jesus tells them that Elijah has already returned. They messed up, again.

The message I see here is that no matter how close you are to God, you must never settle. God has a kingdom to build. We need to look at every situation as having a reason. God’s will is to build the kingdom. Always move toward being better. Open your eyes to God’s steppingstones. Be His tools to finish the job.

Day 21

Mark 9:14-29; boy with an unclean spirit

David W Barnett, Lead Pastor

"If..." The word introduces a conditional clause. A certain condition or conditions must be met for the outcome of the conditional clause is realized. In computer programming, if/then arguments are used to consider one condition (the "if"), and from that, to direct the program to an outcome (the "then).

Notice in v. 22 the father of the boy says to Jesus, "if you can do anything...", a conditional statement. Jesus replies in v. 23 by repeating it back: "If you can!" Jesus may be repeating in the form of a question: "Really? You asked Me if I can?" . He may be repeating it with a tone of exasperation: "IF you can!" Either way, the sense is that Jesus knows the final answer isn't subject to any conditions. He says, "ALL things are possible for one who believes." Not just any one thing is possible, but all things are possible. The father responds in v. 24, "I believe; help my unbelief!"

The father knew that SOME thing was possible. That's why he brought his son to the disciples. But there was still a degree of uncertainty in him. Jesus declared to the father that ALL things are possible for those who believe. Jesus is who He says He is, and He can do what He says HE can do, if we will simply believe in Him.

Day 22

Mark 9:30-50; temptations to sin

Charles Umphress

Earlier in chapter 9 we read the story of the transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain, and the son who was delivered from demon possession.  Verse 30 begins “And they departed thence…” (KJV), or “They went on from there…”(ESV).  Reading scripture that begins with a reference to what has come before is an indication we should read what came before, to fully understand what comes next.

So what comes next?  Jesus tells his disciples all about what comes next, before it actually happens.  Jesus will be arrested, killed and come back to life 3 days later.  If you just saw Jesus transfigured, and you just saw Jesus cast a demon out, why is it so difficult to believe what Jesus is telling you now?  We should read verse 32 together, “But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.”  What has God told you?  Maybe it was today, yesterday, last week, last month, last year, maybe many years ago.  What did God say to you?  Maybe you didn’t see a way, so you didn’t believe what God was telling you.  The good news is not dependent on you believing what God said.  God’s Word is still going to happen, whether you believed it when he said it, or not.  God’s Word cannot return void.

Hold on to the promises of God with everything that is in you.  Hold on as tight as you can.  Resolve in your mind and in  your heart  Jesus rose from the dead just like he said he would, and God’s Word to you is just as certain.

Day 23

Mark 10:1-16; divorce; little children

Ben Kapuya

1. God is the creator of the marriage; it is good. So, marriage is a divine institution always solemnly celebrated in every culture worldwide. Then sin messed it up. Divorce is not in God's plan. When done in God's standards marriage lasts strongly. When Pharisees asked about divorce Jesus responded that there is not divorce without "the hardness of the heart." That is why Moses authorized divorce. Jesus Christ did not describe divorce, but He keeps telling them what marriage is. Jesus makes it clear that the divorce option is not what God planned when He made marriage. The cause of divorce is "the hardness of the heart." Avoid it and make marriage work. Of course, you need to comply to God's standards for a strong marriage. "The hardness of heart" is the opposite of the word of God and His path. This happens when people are far away from God. This scripture underlines boldly that when God is in the center of the marriage no one can separate them. Later when His own disciples asked again about divorce, Jesus told them divorcing to marry another is committing the sin adultery. Do not take your marriage vows lightly.

2. The second lesson from these scriptures is about to trust God like a child. Kids are so confident about their parents' abilities to protect them, to provide for their needs and to love them. In the kingdom of God, lifestyle is to trust God like little children. That is the key to be part of the Kingdom of God. In other words, we need to have faith in God under any circumstance.

Day 24

Mark 10:17-34; the rich young man

Danielle Royer

The passage of the rich young ruler (10:17-31) is one that prompts us to reckon with how we value and prioritize our physical possessions. Like the ruler, we all (hopefully) do our best to abide by the physically-manifesting laws God set out for us, but when it comes to matters of heart posture, things can get cloudy. The ruler was ultimately unable to overcome his love for his material items and that ultimately cost him his heavenly reward. This passage, along with the parable of the widow and the story of Cain and Abel's offerings, should serve as a reminder of how crucial it is that we remain dedicated to giving our best to God and the work He has set out for us, even when it is difficult or inconvenient. We all have different levels of physical need and blessing in our lives, so while it can feel painful in times of both need and abundance to give freely and joyfully, our blessings in heaven will be beyond whatever was ours during our time on earth. When we falsely prioritize worldly things, our relationship with God suffers, but when we humble ourselves, we receive blessings.

The last section of this passage offers further insight and prophecy for what Jesus would endure in the future. The numerous outright and direct references Jesus makes to the pain and agony He would endure for our salvation indicates that the disciples needed recurrent reminders and context for what Jesus' purpose on Earth was. It's encouraging to know that no matter how many times Jesus speaks in clear and certain terms to us and we still don't understand, He continues to work in our lives and try to reveal Himself and His will to us.

Day 25

Mark 10:35-52; request of James and John; Bartimaeus

Placide Bakumayi, Francophone Pastor

En français...

Jesus-Christ nous enseigne comment être des serviteurs, nous sommes libres de demander à Dieu  ce que nous voulons, mais notre demande peut être rejetéee. Dieu veut nois donner ce qu'il y a de meilleur pour nous, pas simplement ce que nous lui demandons, c'est la raison pour laquelle il refuse de donner suite à certaines de nos demandes.

In English...

Jesus Christ teaches us how to be servants, we are free to ask God for whatever we want, but our request can be rejected. God wants to give us what is best for us, not just what we ask for, that is why he refuses to grant some of our requests.

Day 26

Mark 11:1-11; triumphal entry

Palm Sunday

Now to the gate of my Jerusalem,

The seething holy city of my heart,

The saviour comes. But will I welcome him?

Oh crowds of easy feelings make a start;

They raise their hands, get caught up in the singing,

And think the battle won. Too soon they’ll find

The challenge, the reversal he is bringing

Changes their tune. I know what lies behind

The surface flourish that so quickly fades;

Self-interest, and fearful guardedness,

The hardness of the heart, its barricades,

And at the core, the dreadful emptiness

Of a perverted temple. Jesus  come

Break my resistance and make me your home.

-- Malcolm Guite

Malcolm Guite (born 12 November 1957) is an English poet, singer-songwriter, Anglican priest, and academic.

Day 27

Mark 11:12-33; the fig tree

Steve Royer

I love the manner in which facts were presented in descriptive narrative in this passage. I appreciate the timeline of the events shared while explaining the actions of the moments. Whether it was a spoken word or a physical action, Jesus clearly demonstrated His authority.

While on Earth, Jesus had human needs as evidenced by His hunger. He understands us when we express our human needs while praying.

The words Jesus speaks are powerful and true. He said that specific fig tree would not bear fruit. Since the fig tree died the very next morning, we did not have to wait long to see that His words are powerful and true.   

Jesus takes actions with authority to change outcomes. When money changers and merchants were disrespecting the House of prayer, Jesus literally cleaned House.

Day 28

Mark 12:1-17; parable of tenants; paying taxes

Faye Bertelmann

I noticed in this passage that the landlord had provided everything necessary for the tenant farmers to be successful before he leased out the vineyard to them. Also, it is customary for a landlord to expect to receive a percentage of the crops harvested on his land. He was not wrong in sending agents to collect his rightful portion. He sent several agents, giving the tenant farmers every opportunity to pay what they owed him, but every man sent was either treated badly or killed. As a last resort, the landlord chose to send his son, thinking that he would be accepted and safe from harm. However, the son was also killed. The collection agents remind me of all the prophets God sent to warn Israel. Because these prophets were ignored, mistreated, or killed, God sent His son Jesus. One clear point here in this story is that the landlord thought his son would be safe, but God the Father knew that His son would be killed but sent him anyway. It was obvious to the priests, scribes, and elders who were listening that Jesus was referring to them so they left him alone.

Later they sent some Pharisees and Herodians to attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. They began with flattery but Jesus knew their hypocrisy and asked to see a coin that had Caesar's image on it. Jesus told them to give Caesar the things that were his (i.e. taxes) and give to God the things that were due him. This is often used as an example for Christians to pay taxes due and to pay tithes they owe. It has occurred to me that the “things” that are God's include more than just money. These things could include our time, service, praise and worship, evangelism, etc. Perhaps we all need to reconsider whether or not we are giving to God ALL the “things that are God's.”

Day 29

Mark 12:18-34; the Great Commandment

Kimber Ceja

In this passage, we learn how though many tried to trap Jesus into saying the wrong thing or contradict Jewish law or belief, he never fell for it and gave insight that we can still learn from and use today. The Greatest Commandment is to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength" and to "love your neighbor as yourself". While many tried to trick Jesus, one of the men understood what he was saying and took it to heart, remembering it and putting it to real life, challenging us followers to be like that man and not just listen but understand what Jesus says. When Jesus had finished it says that "no one dared ask him any more questions", showing the effect Jesus had with just his words, the power he had in just his voice and how it was filled with truth, that no one could deny it or fight against it, they all knew that it was true and even quit trying to trick Jesus in that moment. Overall this chapter shows how Jesus is such a wise person, and we must be willing to learn from him and also USE his lessons in our everyday life.

Day 30

Mark 12:35-44; Who's son is the Christ? Widow's offering

Day 31

Mark 13:1-23; signs to close the age

Pastor David W Barnett

Mark Chapter 13 can be a challenge to understand. Jesus is speaking prophetically to His disciples about things yet to come. For passages like this, a natural approach is for us to try and find ourselves in the narrative. When Jesus speaks of wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes and famines, etc. as signs of things to come, we relate. We have experienced wars, both actual and threatened. We know natural disaster. It feels like it is all around us.

I believe that Jesus wanted every believer to hear His words and have a sense of expectation that these days of tribulation would end, and it would be the Lord who would end them: “...he shortened the days.” (v. 20)

What are we to do while we live out this time of great trial? Jesus was quite clear:
* don’t be led astray (v. 5)
* don’t be alarmed (v. 7)
* be on your guard (v. 9)
* don’t be anxious (v.11)
* let the Holy Spirit speak through you (v. 11)
* the one who endures to the end will be saved (v. 13)
* be ready to take refuge (v. 14)
* don’t believe false prophets (vv. 21-22)
* and again, BE ON GUARD (v. 23)

Jesus’ words aren’t emphasizing the specifics of the trials, tribulation, and evil acts that the believers will experience. Rather, Jesus is placing the emphasis on the believer’s response to these things – be strong, be prepared, be true. By staying true to Jesus, we can overcome any trial. Jesus is challenging us to triumph in the face of tribulation.

Day 32

Mark 13:24-37; coming of the Son of Man

Pastor David W Barnett

In the first half of Mark 13. Jesus warned of trials and tribulation yet to come, instructed His followers how to triumph through them, and promised that He would bring them to an end soon. In the second half of the chapter, Jesus shares several beautiful word pictures of His coming to foster hope in His followers:

...in the worst of darkness and shaking, the Son of Man will come and dispatch His angels to gather the faithful to Him (vv. 24-27)

...just like the budding fig tree in Spring, you will see signs of life to indicate that He is coming (vv. 28-31)

...we are to be vigilant, just as the Master of the house has put his servants in charge during his absence with instructions to stay alert and on task until he returns (vv. 32-36)

The last verse of Mark 13 expresses the sum total of the entire teaching from Jesus about His return. We would all be wise to do as He says: “And what I say to you, I say to all – STAY AWAKE.” (v. 37)

Day 33

Mark 14:1-21; Jesus' anointing and Passover

Jonas Ceja

The prophet Samuel, who was the high priest, anointed both Saul and David as the Kings of Israel by pouring oil on their heads. While analyzing the life of Jesus, he should have been anointed by the high priest during a grand celebration for everyone to see. Instead, we rejected Jesus. He chose instead to be anointed by sinners, people of ill repute, the same people he chose to break bread with. People like you and me, who are not even worthy of tying the laces of his sandal. Yet, by his grace, he saved us despite our unworthiness. He has given us the honor of being his children.  He even said the woman who anointed him would be known for all time for her actions. Let that sink in, he gives us honor when we deserve death. In Corinthians, it was proclaimed, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong." 

Day 34

Mark 14:22-31; The Lord's Supper; Peter's denial foretold

Lynn Stanley

These verses are packed with insight, foresight, and hindsight. I began writing it all out and realized it would be too much for one day.

Earlier in the chapter Jesus is anointed with oil and He tells everyone that He is being prepared for His burial. During the supper He tells His disciples who will betray Him. In verses 22-24, Jesus gives thanks for the bread and the cup and tell the disciples that the bread is His body and the cup is His blood of the new covenant.

At this point, my mind is blowing up with all of the information and metaphors used. If I was one of them, I would be like the four year old child who constantly asks “why?”.

As they go to pray, Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7 and basically tells them they will abandon Him. Peter is insistent that he will stay with Jesus to the end. Then Jesus tells Peter he will deny Jesus three times before the rooster crows twice. We all know, when the rooster crowed Peter was filled with great remorse. Why? Because we don’t serve a religious God , we serve a relational God. I care not to think of how many times I have said “I'd never do…” And at some point finding myself to have done what I would never do.

Thank You Lord Jesus, for Your body and Your blood that saves and forgives.

Day 35

Mark 14:32-52; prayer in Gethsemane; Jesus' arrest

Pastor David Barnett

[I wrote this song after a trip to Israel, where I had the opportunity to visit the Garden of Gethsemane.]

I am standing in the silence of a cool and peaceful garden,
outside its walls, the world is rushing by
where I stand, I am surrounded by a weathered, ancient orchard,
bent and twisted, it endures the test of time

The seasons come and go and change the garden –
as it grows, it lives a little while and then it dies
and the only things remaining from the Savior’s darkest night
are the stones that drank His teardrops
and the trees that heard Him cry

A quiet anguish lingers in the stillness of the garden,
I feel it in deep places in my soul
for it was here my Savior pleaded with the Father
for courage to complete what He must do

The seasons come and go and change the garden –
as it grows, it lives a little while and then it dies
and the only things remaining from the Savior’s darkest night
are the stones that drank His teardrops
and the trees that heard Him cry

The wailing of the wind stirs in the branches
it echoes Jesus’ words through space and time
“Father, if it be Your will, take this cup away from me;
but not My will, but Thine.

I am standing in the silence of a cool and peaceful garden,
outside its walls, the world is rushing by
and the rocks cry out
and the rocks cry out

Day 36

Mark 14:53-72; trial before the Sanhedrin; Peter's denial

[from Helen K. Bond, in "The Trial and Death of Jesus", St. Andrews Encyclopaedia of Theology]

Blasphemy in the first century did not simply mean saying the name of Israel’s God Yahweh out loud (as Monty Python’s Life of Brian or Lev 24:15–16 might have one believe). Rather, it covered a broader range of misdeeds, including speaking against the patriarchs or institutions of Judaism, or claiming any privileges that belonged to God alone (Brown 1994: 520–530; Collins 2006). Prophesying the destruction of the temple could certainly be included in this definition, though in Mark and Matthew Jesus is charged with blasphemy only when he claims that his opponents will soon see him sitting at the right hand of the ‘Power’ (a circumlocution for God) and coming with the clouds of heaven (Mark 14:62; Matt 26:65). It is thus his messianic claim that is declared blasphemous (Bock 1998).

Day 37

Mark 15:1-15; Jesus' trial before Pilate

[from Chuck Smith (1927-2013), founder of the Calvary Chapel movement]

Pilate asked them a question that is a question that is very relevant to each one of us, "What will you then that I shall do unto Him whom you call the King of the Jews? What shall I do with this man?" That's something that every one of you have to determine in your own hearts. What are you going to do with Jesus who is called the King of the Jews? You see, you've got to do something with Him. He is a radical, and as a radical you cannot be neutral towards Him. You've got to have some kind of an opinion. You've got to do something with Him. And you see, you've got to either believe Him or not believe Him. You've got to receive Him or reject Him. Now, not to believe in Him is to not believe in Him. In other words, you can't be neutral; you've got to take a stand one way or the other. You either believe or you don't believe. You can't be neutral. Not to receive Him is to reject Him. Not to confess Him is to deny Him. And each of you must determine what you are going to do with this man Jesus who is called the King of the Jews. For you either confess or deny, you receive or you reject, you believe or you don't believe.

Day 38

Mark 15:16-32; Jesus' scourging and crucifixion

Brittany Umphress, Missionary Associate in Missionary Aviation

I’ve read this passage many times and I love how it is the Lord’s LIVING Word. Every time I read it, something new sticks out. This passage is always a heartbreaking passage to read. Our Jesus, who had never sinned and came to love the unlovable, was mocked and humiliated in front of the entire battalion of soldiers. To be mocked means to be attacked or treated with ridicule by mimicry of action or speech, contempt or derision.

They struck Jesus repeatedly in the head with a reed and spit on Him while bowing down to “show homage”. And then they led Him away to be crucified.

Jesus was in so much pain (He had already received the 39 lashes with a Roman Flagrum) that someone else had to carry His cross for Him. He had been beaten beyond recognition, his body was probably very weak and dehydrated from the loss of blood. And here in Mark is the second place where this is mentioned, but I think it’s very interesting as I had never caught it before. Before they crucify Jesus, they offer Him wine with myrrh mixed into it (Matthew 27:34 refers to it as gall). I have read this passage many times but when I was listening to it, this detail really stuck out. I immediately began looking into myrrh. I’ve heard over the years that myrrh was given to Jesus (by the Magi) as a symbol of His suffering and death to come. But what I found interesting is that myrrh is also used as an anti-inflammatory/pain reliever. Jesus refused, choosing instead to bear the full weight and pain of our sin. Jesus never chose the “easier” way. Instead He made a way, the ONLY way, for us to approach the Father by choosing to bear the full weight of our transgressions. Whew! What an incredibly hard and beautiful picture of His love for us!

Day 39

Mark 15:33-47; Jesus' death and burial

"Were You There" (African-American Spiritual, first printed in the 1899 Old Plantation Hymns)

    Were you there when they crucified my Lord? (Were you there?)
    Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
    O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
    Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

    Were you there when they nail'd him to the cross? (Were you there?)
    Were you there when they nail'd him to the cross?
    O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
    Were you there when they nail'd him to the cross?

    Were you there when they pierced him in the side? (Were you there?)
    Were you there when they pierced him in the side?
    O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
    Were you there when they pierced him in the side?

    Were you there when the sun refused to shine? (Were you there?)
    Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
    O sometimes it causes me to tremble! tremble! tremble!
    Were you there when the sun refused to shine?

Day 40

Mark 16:1-20; the Resurrection

Faye Bertelmann

It was the summer of 1990 and our daughter was not quite 4 when we made a trip to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, to see the Passion Play.  Having attended Sunday School, church, and Rainbows, she understood most of what was happening during the performance and was fascinated by it all.  However, when "Jesus" was placed in the tomb and all the lights went out, she spoke out clearly and loudly enough that a church group sitting around us could hear her when she said, "It's all over now, Mommy.  It's done.  That's all."  Evidently she had not grasped the fact that the story was not yet over.  Many smiles and amens from the group around us were evident as I shared the gospel truth with her that,  "No, Meleah, the story is NOT over.  Just wait and you will see 'Jesus' come back alive from the tomb."  When that happened, her little hands clapped with glee as she understood the Resurrection event.

We need to realize that because of Jesus' death AND resurrection, the story is still not over.  Without the resurrection, our salvation would not be complete and also there would be no need for the Great Commission as given in this chapter.  What good news would we have to share IF Jesus were still in the tomb?  But with praise and thanksgiving we can say, "Christ is risen!  He is risen indeed!"