In Mark 1:35-39, the Prince of Peace seems rather preoccupied. Jesus had just completed an extremely successful Sabbath day in Capernaum. He’d preached an amazing sermon in the synagogue, mesmerizing the congregation with an authority that rose far above the scribes to whom they were accustomed. He then finished off the service by casting a demon out of a man. Imagine that—someone came to church full of the devil! By the end of the day, Mark declares that the whole city had gathered at the door of Peter’s house where Jesus was staying, and He healed many and cast out many demons.
The next morning, however, Peter and his companions awaken to discover the Miracle Worker is nowhere in the house. In the dark Jesus had arisen and stolen away to a quiet, lonely place to pray—to talk with the Father. The disciples literally track Him down. Their hearts and minds are brimming with anticipation because He has the whole city eating out of the palm of His hand, so they announce to Him, “Everyone is looking for You!”
Jesus’ response must have startled them. He makes it clear that the sensation seeking crowds of Capernaum will have no bearing on the next ministry initiative. Without hesitation He insists, “Let’s go somewhere else!” He must preach in other places because that is what He came for.
The Prince of Peace is preoccupied with prayer to the Father, preaching the Kingdom (Mark 1:14, 15), and the purpose for which He came.
When I am “preoccupied,” I don’t usually think of myself as being “at peace.” Perhaps though, it is these very preoccupations that make Jesus the Prince of Peace. Alas, I am too often “preoccupied” with the wrong things!
Lord, today, may I be “preoccupied” with prayer, with sharing the good news of your Kingdom, and with the unique purpose that you have for my life!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment