Mark 4:1 (NRSV)
Read Mark 4:1 on biblegateway.com
Devotion
In the Gospels, Jesus is addressed as teacher or rabbi more than any other title. One could say that Jesus is not merely a teacher; he is the teacher. He embodies the figure of divine wisdom described in the book of Proverbs.
The Scriptures remind us that we should listen carefully to how Jesus teaches. In Mark 1:27, as in Matthew 7:29, Jesus is said to teach as one who has authority, not like the religious leaders of the day. Jesus does not usually teach by "lecturing," but by telling stories, or parables. In these parables, the poor, the outcast and the unclean become the bearers of truth. In Jesus' day, these parables subverted traditional wisdom and authority.
Where Jesus teaches is as significant as how he teaches. From a boat on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus calms the sea through teaching, expanding his mission to Gentiles, east of the sea, as well as to Jews, west of the sea. He travels between the two, performing wonders. The place of his teaching, as surely as his method, shows us his wisdom and power.
Prayer
O Christ, open our hearts and minds. Teach us your ways, that we might respond to the power and mercy of your profound and everlasting word.
Amen.