Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the WorldSample

First Thought 

Darkness came over the land. The whole cosmos is caught up in this act of God. We see, too, the darkness of Jesus’ abandonment. As death approached, Jesus cried out in the words of Psalm 22, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ It’s the agony of a death that’s unimaginable in its suffering and isolation, but Psalm 22 ends in vindication. Mark tells us that as Jesus died, the temple curtain was torn in two signifying new access into the presence of God. From now, God would dwell amongst His people through Jesus, not the temple. Evil had not triumphed. Surely this was the Son of God, declared the centurion in amazement. As we contemplate the cross, we stand on holy ground, too. 

What Does the Bible Say?

Consider the women watching from a distance. What must they have been thinking and feeling?

Living it Out

What does it mean for you to follow Jesus, suffering servant and victorious king? 

Responding in Prayer

Suffering, victorious king, thank you for dying for me and for the whole world. I’m caught up in wonder at your saving grace (…). Amen.