Well, today I finally got myself back on track. I definitely might have to try the audio Bible route and listen to it on the way to work. But I’m thinking I might choose to wait a while before I do that, after all, I’m just getting into the book of Leviticus. That could lead to some impaired driving as I would imagine an oral reading of it would not be the most dramatic. Probably not the wisest thing to listen to when it’s still dark during the majority of my commute. I’ve honestly been dreading this portion of the reading plan. But if you’re playing along at home, it’s time for all of us to put on our big boy pants and get through this together. We can do it!
(And maybe we’ll learn a thing or two along the way. But don’t tell anyone…)
In contrast to how I’ve felt about starting Leviticus, I’m amazed at how fast-paced the Gospel of Mark is right from the very beginning. Jesus doesn’t slow down very much in this account. Surely part of that is because it’s intended to be heard by an audience and this style would be readily engaging. I’m also starting to think that it’s told so quickly because Jesus only had a short time here and the kingdom of God was advancing quickly (still is, by the way). There’s so much that has to be done to prepare the way of the Lord that he was busy going about his Father’s business. Maybe there’s something we should learn from that.
By chapter 3, the religious elite already want Jesus dead. That’s pretty quick.
The story of the friends bringing the paralyzed man to Jesus through a hole in the ceiling fascinates me. They were so convicted that their friend needed to be in Jesus’ presence that they were willing to do whatever it took to get him there. Do I have that kind of dedication? Do I love my friends enough to do whatever it takes to get them in the presence of Jesus? After all, Jesus will wind up doing the rest. Definitely something to think about.
The Tale of Anakin Redeemed 