Central Truth

The power from Jesus brings hope to the confused, comfort to the suffering, and life from death.

Reflections

A man possessed, living in a cave, shunned from society. A woman who had spent all she had trying to be healed from 12 years of pain, considered unclean because of her bleeding. Jairus, a synagogue ruler, pleading for his dying daughter. All seemed hopeless for these three in their circumstances until Jesus shows up.

The demons understood the power Jesus possesses and who He is, calling him: "Jesus, Son of the Most High God" (verse 7). The woman understood that all she needed to do was to touch Jesus' clothes to be healed (verse 28). Jairus understood that life comes through Jesus (verse 23).

When you meet Jesus, change happens. Demons meet their match, healing comes to the suffering, and life comes from death. Have you experienced this in your life? If so, are you telling others how much Jesus has done for you like the demon-possessed man (verse 20)? If not, Jesus' words to Jairus are as true today for you as they were for Jairus in verse 36: "Do not be afraid any longer, only believe."

Until there is belief in Jesus, our efforts are futile. Turn to Jesus as the first resort, not the last resort. Be free in Christ and watch as the power of Jesus amazes and completely astonishes people when they see Him at work in your life.

For 33 years, my life was much like this chapter -- my demons being complacency, isolation, people pleasing, and passivity. My internal bleeding was trying to control my circumstances and trusting myself. Those things led to a death of a marriage because of my self reliance. My life seemed hopeless.

What changed me was Jesus. Totally submitting to Him, trusting the promises of His Word. Much like the three we read about today -- the old is gone, and the new has come in my life because of Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Father, may we all live recognizing that Jesus is the Son of the Most High God, realizing the power He has, and listening to His words and not the noise of this world. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. What evidence in your life points to Jesus being the Son of the Most High God?

2. With whom are you sharing about what Jesus has done and is doing in your life?

3. What area of your life are you trying to control and what is preventing you from releasing that control to God?

4. Who is your faith and belief in? If you know that it is not Jesus or are unsure and would like someone to discuss it with, please let me know.

WEEKLY FAMILY ACTIVITY

MARK 3-7 (FEBRUARY 13-17)

Read Mark 6:45-52.

* What happened to the weather while the disciples were in the boat?
* How did they feel when they saw Jesus walking on the water?
* What did He say to them in verse 50?
* Are there storms (hard or scary things) happening in your life right now?
* Is it hard to remember that God is with you?

Activity: Fold a piece of paper in half long ways. At the top of the left side write: Verse. On the right side, write: Promise. Look up each of these verses and then write the promises that God gives you in each one: Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 43:1-3; Joshua 1:9; Psalm 62:6-7; Psalm 46:1; and Matthew 11:28-30.

If you have a storm in your life, pick out one of these verses to memorize to help you remember that God is with you and caring for you. Then think about someone you know who is also going through a storm. Pray for them to remember that God is with them and then write them a note and include one of the verses that you read.