Day 1: Mark 1:29-39
Read Mark 1:29-39
Helpful Background Information:
Mark 1:29–39 gives us a snapshot of one incredibly full day in Jesus’ early ministry. After teaching in the synagogue and casting out an unclean spirit (Mark 1:21–28), Jesus goes to the house of Simon and Andrew. There, He heals Simon’s mother-in-law, and soon after, the whole town shows up at the door. Jesus spends the evening healing many and casting out more demons. One would expect, after this busy day, Jesus would think He had earned a day to sleep in. However, long before daylight, while it’s still dark, He gets up, leaves the house, and finds a quiet place to pray.
Reflection Questions:
Jesus had just experienced a wildly successful day of ministry. Why do you think He still prioritized getting up early to be alone in prayer?
How often do you make time to be alone with God without distractions? What usually keeps you from doing it?
When the disciples found Jesus, they tried to pull Him back to the crowd.
Can you relate to the pressure of other people’s expectations?
How might silence and solitude help you stay grounded in what God is actually calling you to do?