Today’s scripture: Mark 1:40-45 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me in this passage? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Kristin Lee):
The scripture says Jesus was moved [and] he stretched out his hand. What struck me is the speed with which Jesus acted in healing after he was moved, in this case, with pity. Jesus was moved and he acted quickly, decisively and with compassion.
When have I encountered a situation where I was moved and responded with like speed? I can think of a countless number of situations where I was presented with a situation begging for quick action. However, I recall only one situation where I had acted with speed.
I was a senior in high school, a leader on my school’s basketball team. In practice, we were performing a drill targeting our footwork. The drill required us to do unusual stepping, and one of my younger teammates started to pretend she was mentally disabled. The moment I understood what she was doing, I called her out (so that she could hear but no one else) and told her to stop. We were both standing in the middle of the court. She stopped, and we continued with the drill. We never spoke about it.
I’ve had thirty years of living. I have often acted to fight injustice using my spiritual gifts — but only once did I act with the speed Jesus used in this scripture.
Thought for the day: What can I do to prepare myself to be able to use my spiritual gifts when speed is required?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.