Mark 1:21-28
We all want to be leaders. It is an inherent piece of our humanity, to lead others along a path which we know is right. But what does it take to be a good leader?
In today's gospel reading, Jesus teaches us how to be leaders. We read that Jesus went into the temple and spoke on the scriptures. The passage tells us that as He spoke, people in the synagogue were amazed by His knowledge of the Word, the confidence and authority with which He taught. Consider, after all, that these people had watched Jesus grow up. But here was a man who proclaimed the Word of God, not as a mere scribe or lector, but as a Prophet, "one with authority". It was nothing short of amazing to see one of their own preach so passionately.
This is how the Lord calls us to lead others: to use His authority to preach the truth.
Easier said than done, right?
In this day and age, workplace persecution is becoming more prevalent. Many Christians are afraid to speak out and share their faith with others. We may be ostracized, or worse, terminated. This fear holds so many back from teaching God's truth. Jesus' suffering proves to us that this persecution is possible, even probable.
But don't be afraid to lose the favor of others when you speak the Word! As Romans 8:18 says, "sufferings in this present time are nothing compared to the glory that awaits us". Lose favor with the world and you will find increased favor with God!
As a public school teacher, I often feel scared to share my faith with others. What if I offend someone? What if I am seen as a hypocrite? What if my boss finds out? So many fears plague me!
Today's reading is a reminder to lead with God's authority, despite the uncertainty. Yes, many people may doubt you, criticize and persecute you. But many will be amazed by your authority and faith. And isn't that our true calling, to lead others to Christ?
I am #grateful that God sees our diligence, and that greater joy is ahead for those who follow His leadership!
We all want to be leaders. It is an inherent piece of our humanity, to lead others along a path which we know is right. But what does it take to be a good leader?
In today's gospel reading, Jesus teaches us how to be leaders. We read that Jesus went into the temple and spoke on the scriptures. The passage tells us that as He spoke, people in the synagogue were amazed by His knowledge of the Word, the confidence and authority with which He taught. Consider, after all, that these people had watched Jesus grow up. But here was a man who proclaimed the Word of God, not as a mere scribe or lector, but as a Prophet, "one with authority". It was nothing short of amazing to see one of their own preach so passionately.
This is how the Lord calls us to lead others: to use His authority to preach the truth.
Easier said than done, right?
In this day and age, workplace persecution is becoming more prevalent. Many Christians are afraid to speak out and share their faith with others. We may be ostracized, or worse, terminated. This fear holds so many back from teaching God's truth. Jesus' suffering proves to us that this persecution is possible, even probable.
But don't be afraid to lose the favor of others when you speak the Word! As Romans 8:18 says, "sufferings in this present time are nothing compared to the glory that awaits us". Lose favor with the world and you will find increased favor with God!
As a public school teacher, I often feel scared to share my faith with others. What if I offend someone? What if I am seen as a hypocrite? What if my boss finds out? So many fears plague me!
Today's reading is a reminder to lead with God's authority, despite the uncertainty. Yes, many people may doubt you, criticize and persecute you. But many will be amazed by your authority and faith. And isn't that our true calling, to lead others to Christ?
I am #grateful that God sees our diligence, and that greater joy is ahead for those who follow His leadership!