From: February 20, 2015
When the Tabernacle was completed and its furnishings and priests were consecrated, Aaron and his sons made the first worship offerings. It began as a day of celebration with God’s glory appearing to all the people (Lev. 9:23), but it ended as a day of mourning. For two of Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, took it upon themselves to offer worship contrary to God’s instruction and God judged them for it. The fire of His glory went out from the Lord and devoured them and they died. This was a hard lesson for Aaron and the Levitical priests to learn. For those who are called to lead in worship are held to high account. When we answer the call of God and take His Name upon ourselves, we become His servants, His representatives, and we are to live lives of worship in the way He commands. As Jesus said, “To whom much is given, much is required” (Luke 12:48). Our worship must not draw attention to us, but to the Holy One, so that He is the One glorified before the people.
From: February 20, 2014
Jesus and the Twelve crossed to the Eastern side of the Sea of Galilee to a Gentile region known as the the Gerasenes near the Decapolis (Ten Cities). They went through a terrible storm on the way across that so terrified the disciples that Jesus had to calm it. Then, as soon as they landed they were met by a demon-possessed man that lived in the tombs. After Jesus cast the demons out into a nearby herd of pigs, the locals were so afraid of Jesus that they begged Him to leave. The healed demoniac however, begged to go with Jesus. Instead, Jesus appointed him to go to the Decapolis and tell what God had done. When we read this story, it appears that Jesus crossed over to a Gentile land, in spite of a terrible storm, to heal and ordain one demoniac to be a disciple. Jesus is still calling us to cross over to the other side to call those that He wants to save.
From: February 20, 2013
The disciples were afraid of the storm outside the boat until they awoke Jesus. Then, they were afraid of the One inside the boat. We say that we believe and trust Jesus fully. Yet when life’s storms come, we discover the true measure of our faith. The disciples thought they knew the size of Jesus’ power, but it took a terrifying tempest to enlarge their understanding.
From: February 20, 2012
I wonder how many have turned Jesus away because they were afraid of the changes He would make in their lives? If they would have invited Him to stay, there would have been another chapter in the Gospel of Mark. Instead, just this… He got back in the boat and left them.
From: February 20, 2011
What Jesus said to the demoniac He had freed from possession. When Christ saves us, He sends us first to our families then to the world.