Text: Mark 2:1 -28
In the first seventeen verses of this passage, Mark demonstrates to us two major themes. In the story of the paralytic and the calling of Levi, Mark points out that the greatest need in one’s life is spiritual and the only place where one will find help is in Jesus Christ. Examine the words of Jesus in verses 5 and 14.What gift did these two men receive? Also, in the same stories and the controversies about fasting and the Sabbath, the passage tells us that true religion is an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, and that this relationship is available to all who humble themselves before God, acknowledging their spiritual poverty. Notice what our Lord Jesus says in verses15, 17 and 19.Praise God for Jesus that He
identifies with us in our sin. By bearing judgment of the law of God, the Father, Jesus became sin for us, so that we might receive His righteousness (2 cor. 5:21).
Meditate on verse 5b. How does this verse apply to you?
Father, we thank You for Jesus, an all-sufficient Saviour. Thank You that there is no need in us that He cannot and has not made full provision to meet.
Thank You that He is able to save to the uttermost all who come to God by Him. And so, I come to You by Him now, asking that for His sake, You might have mercy on me and wash, cleanse and restore me to fellowship with Yourself. For I ask it in Jesus’ name. Amen.