Prayer, Service And Compassion
LENT 2024 | DAY 3
Mark 1:35-45 (NIV)
(Angelyn Peh, Associate Lay Leader)
I thank God for reminding me about three learning points today:
1. Prayer
During the years of Jesus’ work on earth, He demonstrated His prayer life on various occasions. Verse 35 is one example. We are told that “very early in the morning while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed”. This strongly reminds me of the importance of prioritising time with God, talking to Him and listening to Him. That Jesus made the effort of going out to a solitary place also demonstrates the significance of seeking God and connecting with Him intimately.
Although I’ve been a Christian for more than 40 years, I confess that my prayer life only came alive in the past 20 years and since then, I’ve experienced a closer walk with God. I can testify that putting God first, talking to Him before I start the day, and seeking Him to provide strength, guidance and wisdom for the challenges I may face during the day truly help me prepare mentally, emotionally and spiritually for the tasks I need to accomplish.
2. Service
Verses 36 and 37 tell us that when Jesus’ disciples found Him and told Him that everyone was looking for Him, He replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.”
Jesus emphasised His mission to preach the Good News of the Kingdom of God. I can see His willingness to serve people, even in the midst of His rest and quiet time with God. This reminds me that I truly need to learn to be flexible and adaptable, in order not to miss any new opportunities the Lord has planned for me to fulfil His purpose in my life.
3. Compassion
Due to the fear of contagion at that time, no one dared to touch someone with leprosy, but Jesus did so with compassion and healed the leper. This deep and unconditional love Jesus had for the sick, the poor, the least and the last stirred my heart. There is so much more that I can do for those in need as long as I am willing to do so.
Yes, Lord, I am willing!
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
DISCUSSION POINTERS:
1. What do verses 35 to 39 tell you about Jesus’ priorities? What is the next step you may take to place your priorities more in sync with Jesus?
2. Do you take time to pray in solitude amidst your busy schedule in ministry or at work?
3. Jesus showed His willingness to serve the people in need. How about you? Are you willing to serve the last, the least and the lost?
