FOURTH
MONDAY
Mark 7:24-37
God of all,
from the scripture it almost seems that Jesus’ ministry outside the borders of
Israel was unintended. When he encounters a loving mother, desperate to see her
daughter released from spiritual oppression, his words seem insulting and he
seems resistant to act on her behalf until she responds with a mixture of
humility and shrewdness. He is moved to action. He liberates. He affirms her
words as the basis for his action and expands the scope of his ministry in a
different direction than he has gone before.
Once again
outside the borders of Israel, he encounters a deaf and partially mute man
brought to him by compassionate friends. He listens to their pleas. He touches.
He prays. He heals. He asks for secrecy.
But who can
keep such healing secret? Who can halt the healed tongue? Praise pours forth.
People are amazed. Jesus’ abilities are proclaimed.
God, we
rejoice that Jesus has touched, healed and liberated many who were outside of
Israel. We rejoice because that includes us! We have also been brought into
Christ’s presence by people who loved us and acted in compassion. We know that we
had no claim upon your power or your grace. We could not assume anything. But
we are overjoyed to be included within the broad scope of Jesus’ ministry.
We rejoice
that we have been healed, liberated, forgiven, and empowered to follow Jesus
and continue his ministry. Amen.
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