Mark’s gospel was the first recorded – most likely written around 70 C.E. (Yes, 66 years after the resurrection of Christ.) It is brief, terse, and rushes at a fast pace through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. It is written in simple language, in short sentences, and with the action in the story often carried by the narrator saying “immediately” this happened or that happened. There are no sermons or prayers of any length by Jesus; in this gospel actions speak louder than words. Both the Gospel of Luke and the Gospel of Matthew used Mark as a starting point for their own writing and most of Mark is included in one or both of those later Gospels.
A few things to watch for:
In Mark’s Gospel no one seems to quite understand who Jesus is. Jesus himself often asks for people to be quiet concerning his identity. This is referred to by Biblical Scholars as the “Messianic Secret.” Jesus is always misunderstood
Mark is concerned with the power of Jesus over demons and over evil of all kinds.
Mark does not show the disciples in a very complimentary light.
Mark highlights Jesus as a suffering savior.
You will notice that many of your favorite Gospel stories will be missing from Mark, and some of the stories familiar to you will seem bare – or missing the details you remember from one of the other Gospels!
Mark 4:35-41
Following Christ is never easy, and always filled with surprises! I am constantly amazed at the role fear plays in stunting our spiritual growth and our joy in living. In this familiar passage, the disciples are literally in a boat with the Lord of all heaven and earth. But when the wind blows and the waves crash, they panic. They wake Jesus up and even chastise him; “Don’t you care that we are dying here?” I can imagine them – faces pinches, brows creased, shaking Jesus and yelling to be heard over the storm. I can imagine myself in their place. “Peace – Be Still.” Jesus only needs to speak the word and the seas are calm. “Why are you so afraid? Have you no faith?” Those words ring in my soul. When I worry about my parents, my children, my finances; when I worry about my future or about the church, I hear Jesus’ voice “Why are you so afraid – Have you no faith?”
Awesome God, I hear your voice, and I know you are near. Help me to stop focusing on wind and waves. Help me to see past the storms of life to your peace and assurance. Let no fear come in the way of my trust and my faith in you – this day or any day. AMEN
