Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
Read Mark 1:21-28 on biblegateway.com
Verse 21They went to Capernaum; and when the sabbath came, he entered the synagogue and taught. Verse 22They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Verse 23Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, Verse 24and he cried out, "What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God." Verse 25But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be silent, and come out of him!" Verse 26And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him. Verse 27They were all amazed, and they kept on asking one another, "What is this? A new teaching-with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him." Verse 28At once his fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee.
Devotion
When you go to church, what do you expect? Probably to hear scripture, sing a few songs, listen to the message of the day. Maybe you even hope to feel inspired, renewed or closer to God. But do you expect to actually spend time with the Messiah?
It’s doubtful the Jews of Capernaum were expecting what they got the day Jesus showed up to preach. Instead of the usual interpretation of the Torah, Jesus speaks a fresh new word. He brings forth insights and revelations based not on rabbinic tradition and history, but on God’s wisdom. And the way he said those words … it was as if he brought to life the very message he was proclaiming. The people were amazed.(v. 22) Jesus was there, in their worship, and that made all the difference. What if you came to church expecting to meet Jesus? How would that make a difference for you?
Prayer
God, astound me today. Make me sit up and take notice of the new things you are doing in my life and in the world. Amen.