Today’s scripture: Mark 1:35-45 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
It’s impressive that Jesus got up early in the morning to pray, and that He cast out demons and healed the leper. But, I see another important ingredient of His effectiveness here, and that is His bold assertiveness, especially when He sternly warns the leper not to tell anyone about his healing.
It’s hard to be assertive when what you say goes completely against the grain, but Jesus seems to have no trouble in plainly commanding the man not to do what must have been his first reaction — to go and tell his family, friends, even strangers — about his dramatic miracle! No, he needed to show himself to the priest first. And, you know something, I’m sure Jesus “did it right!” I’m absolutely confident Jesus commanded this with the utmost respect and love.
Yet the healed man didn’t even follow Jesus’ command! Even the Son of God doesn’t always get people to do what He says! And yet, He certainly didn’t hunt the man down in the next chapter of Mark and revoke his healing, did He? No, even the best admonitions sometimes go unheeded!
There are so many bad examples of assertiveness in the world, it’s almost enough to make it seem like a bad thing. For example, someone:
- projects their own frustration and anger onto the hearer.
- tries to make the other person feel guilty.
- tries to make the other feel ashamed — less than they “should be.”
- tries to make the hearer feel stupid if they disagree.
- doesn’t advocate for a Godly cause, but for their own selfish interests instead.
This makes Jesus’ model of assertiveness all the more impressive! The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Do we employ these when we advocate something?
Jesus was refreshingly creative when trying to make a point. Remember when the disciples foolishly argued which one of them was the greatest? Instead of tearing into them, Jesus brought in a little child and told them the least among them was the greatest. This kind of illustration enabled them to joyfully internalize the truth He wanted to communicate. How much more effective this must have been than condemning them for their petty pride.
And yet, there’s no denying that Jesus fully proclaimed the spiritual depravity of the scribes and Pharisees (Matthew 23:25-28). Nevertheless, I think He personified the principle, “If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12:18).
Thought for the day: Lord, help me develop the art of assertiveness. Help me sharpen my skills so I can advocate Your will effectively.
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.