 Mark 8:11-21
Even though the twelve disciples had the privileged access to Jesus that they had, they were not immune to the influence of Jesus' enemies. Though they want to follow him, still they have difficulty "getting" what Jesus and the Kingdom of God is all about. Jesus' warning to them, "Beware the leaven of the Pharisees," is a warning to us, too. As long as we live in the present world, we are not immune to its antichristian influence. We must be careful to keep our minds and hearts full of the true word of the Lord, Jesus.
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 Mark 7:24-37
In two episodes, Mark shows us how the simple, sincere faith of two outsiders move him to divine action on their behalf. This encourages us to boldly trust in God's love and power for us who are saved in Jesus.  Mark 7:14-23
"Essential Workers" in the Age of COVID-19 include--perhaps especially--nurses, doctors, and other medical workers. They are the ones willing to touch the diseased and disgusting things going on in our bodies to heal them. Likewise, Jesus teaches, in this passage, that the heart is the source of all darkness and spiritual disease that we might deal with in life. Disciples follow Jesus in being willing to touch these places, to heal them. Disciples of Jesus are those whose hearts are cleansed by his blood. Now we can go into all the world bringing that healing to others.  Mark 7:1-13
Is it time for a new Restoration Movement? Jesus calls his disciples to discern between the traditions of men and the word of God. Human traditions are necessary so that one generation can pass on the teachings of God to the next. However, over time, teaching traditions build up a collection of extra teachings that no longer help but hinder the work of the word of God. Like an apple tree that has become overgrown, traditions, too, must be pruned down to the effective, fruitful branches. |
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