Jesus Begins His Public Ministry

This meditation is based on a passage for July 4, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Mark 1:14-20

Reflection and Question: Mark begins his gospel with John the Baptist. When John is arrested, Jesus begins His ministry, proclaiming God’s Kingdom, calling for repentance and inviting disciples to join Him. Four men drop what they were doing to follow Him. Jesus’ words here are a crisp summary of the Gospel promise that “the time is fulfilled,” and the response Jesus looks for from us is repentance, then belief in this promise. Jesus could not have meant “time” as we know it, if His message is also for us now. How do you understand Jesus’ message? How do you follow Him as Simon did?

Prayer: Blessed Jesus, had we heard the news of John’s arrest, our inclination would have been to run and hide. We are inspired by Your immediate public preaching and the quick response of the first disciples. Give us the same courage. Amen.