Mark: Living the Way of Jesus in the Worldనమూనా

First Thought

Jesus now moves to Gentile territory. Despite seeking solitude, it wasn’t long before a woman heard He was in the neighborhood and tracked Him down to plead for her daughter. It’s not unlike Jairus seeking healing for his daughter. This time, though, it’s a Gentile woman looking for Jesus to deliver her daughter from an evil spirit. She gains her desire. Her faith is commended. The disciples learned another lesson about the kingdom of God and its inclusiveness across historical boundaries between Jews and Gentiles. They also learn from the interchange between Jesus and the woman. Jesus’ response to the woman’s pleading sounds brusque, insulting even. But the woman’s response to Jesus builds on His words, affirming Jesus’ call to the Jews first, yet asserting her confidence that Jesus has sufficient resources for Gentiles too. How she must have challenged the disciples’ understanding of Jesus' ministry and mission. 

What Does the Bible Say?

Jesus honors a Gentile woman and heals her daughter from a distance. What do you learn from this about relating to Jesus?

Living it Out

What are you persisting in prayer for?

Responding in Prayer

Unchanging God, hear my prayer for (…). Just as this woman trusted Jesus with her need, so I trust you with mine. Amen.