This Is the New Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. As we read, we’ll gain a broader understanding of the redemptive story of Scripture. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture.
What Is Mark? The Gospel of Mark is a fast-paced narrative about the ministry of Jesus. Likely written by John Mark, who knew both Peter and Paul, this Gospel emphasizes Jesus as both the Son of Man and the Son of God. It also shows Jesus as a humble servant leader, willing to suffer and die on the cross.
How Mark Fits Into the Story: The Gospel of Mark clarifies the nature of the promised Messiah. Though many individuals in Jesus’s day tried to claim the title, Mark redefined it in light of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection. Jesus, the one, true Messiah, was a suffering servant, both fully human and fully divine. Mark’s Gospel shows us how Jesus’s authority, in both teaching and miracles, is present alongside His humanity.
Reflection Questions:
1. How do today’s readings about Jesus’s character and demeanor change your understanding of God’s posture toward His people?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
As I read Mark today, I wonder would I have followed Jesus. I tend to like pretty things. Tidy things. It grieves me to recognize this in myself. I can be harsh and judgmental. I crave to be more like Jesus. The gentleness in how he teaches. His humility. I pray for God to clean the inside of my cup. To teach me how to serve in love.
It’s so amazing ❤️
ANGIE, my sister, thank you!!
When I saw your detailed message as a prayer, I tried to kneel with my body and heart…I am praying along side you for YOU and all our sisters.
God bless you ❤️
Kathy, I am praying you would see God evidently in their lives. I think of John 10:28. No one can snatch them from His hand. I pray you would speak this over the situation and believe for God’s consistent movement in their hearts. May they find purpose and direction in Him, during this time of transition. I believe God is at work. In Jesus name! God bless and keep you, may this strengthen your faith and help you believe and trust Him more. :)
TAYLOR HITE, good morning!! We are so happy you are here. I struggle with prayer too but, this community of women has been EXCEEDINGLY helpful to me and to others!!
If you have a few moments, look back through the comments made throughout the last reading plan (This is the Old Testament). The topic of prayer, motivation to be intimate with God, not feeling worthy, practical suggestions all came up…and many of the comments themselves read like a prayer.
“The Son of Man has not come to be served, but to serve”. This verse really resonated with me this morning as lately I’ve been feeling less then, at work. Thank you Jesus for redirecting my thoughts.  I need to keep in mind I am at my work place to serve.. even when I don’t like what I see that’s OK. As hard as it is to say that, that’s OK because my identity is not in my position at work. Even though it hurt sometimes but that’s OK.
In the great scheme of things it’s really not that big of a deal. I am called to do a job and to do it well. I am blessed to say, “I love my job!”
I really see Jesus as a gentle listener in these passages. He asks the disciples what they were discussing and then listens to what they have to say. His answer isn’t what they were probably hoping for, but He is gentle in His response. This reminds me that my Father is always waiting to listen to what I have to say or ask and that He’ll respond to me kindly, even when the world does not.
Sorry for 3 posts this morning, they were just all so different.
ERB – Your post for your brother came in between mine. So I lift him before the Father right now and ask that our Lord and God would give wisdom, peace, discernment, and grace to his day and the decisions made in it.
Also, I saw some asked again about Churchmouse. I do not mean to start things up again. I did email SRT and received a response that they are reaching out to her. Because she orders hard copies of the studies they know her name and address. I don’t know if they will let us know for sure, I don’t know if they can. I know, prayers are always good.
A little personal news…yesterday was 2 months since the accident. I had 3 medical appointments – hoping to be released. I was not released from any of them. That sounds disappointing, and it was, except that by all 3, who do not know each other or work together, coming up with the same conclusion, I know that was from God and I trust Him. Also, one of the big things is that I wake throughout the night with muscle discomfort that won’t allow me to sleep. I have found ways to lessen the pain and use them through the night, but they take time and interrupt sound sleep. School will be starting back in less than a month. Yesterday two of the three suggested a muscle relaxer. I only took 1/2 last night but, oh my, praise Jesus, I slept all night. Actually I slept until almost 8! I can’t remember when I’ve done that. I’m thankful to God for not leaving me in the discomfort, just getting by, but helping me step by step. I think of so many of you who have shared of constant pain and I am praying for God’s help in your lives.
I’m glad you reached out to SRT regarding Churchmouse. I attempted about a couple weeks ago but they weren’t able to reach out to her then. hopefully now that a few of us have tried maybe they’ll reach out to her.