NT Fire starters – Day 63: Mark 10:32-52

READ: Mark 10:32-52

THINK: From the time He walked the earth, Jesus inspired a range of reactions unlike anyone else who has ever lived. From unreserved love to unwarranted hatred, from unbridled joy to unparalleled sorrow, from profound faith to intense fear, people responded to Jesus with a wide array emotions. But this was consistent with His life’s mission, which was a paradox–a seeming contradiction–as He would be wounded for our healing and die to give us life. And His teaching was also a paradox to most people as they could not comprehend how one could find life by losing it, be first by being last, and exercise authority by being a servant. But those who accept Jesus’ life and live by His teaching will find fulfilment beyond anything they could comprehend.

RESPOND: Why do you think the disciples were astonished and why were those who followed afraid (v. 32)? What did Jesus mean when He asked James and John, “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?”? (See 10:38 note.) In what ways would Jesus’ disciples share in His suffering? What was Jesus trying to teach His disciples about being in positions of leadership and authority? (See 10:43 note.) How did Jesus exemplify His teaching? (See 10: 45, note.) In what way can serving affect a person’s influence? What can you learn from the formerly blind Bartimaeus (vv. 46-52)?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to prepare you for the ways you may suffer for His sake. Pray for humility and an attitude that doesn’t worry about getting recognition, but instead is ready to serve others as a representative of Christ.

ACT: Look for as many ways as possible today to represent Jesus by serving others. Perform random acts of kindness. Do things that others don’t want to do. Serve without being asked. If anyone questions why you are doing any of these things, don’t hesitate to let them know that Jesus has helped you and you want to pass His goodness on to others.