Read: Mark 11:27-33
Reflect: We come to the section of advent where the Pharisees are doing everything they can to thwart Jesus in the eyes of the people. At every turn, they are working to convince the people that Jesus is not to be trusted and retain their status and authority.
Take a moment and read Mark 11:27-33.
The Pharisees, in their attempt to ensnare Jesus, find themselves trapped in a no win situation. They want Jesus to reveal that He believes He is God and be considered a blasphemer. However, Jesus turns the questions back on the Pharisees. When asked about John the Baptist, the Pharisees can say that his power is from Heaven and give room for Jesus to be validated as the fulfillment of prophecy or they can say that John’s power is from earth and risk being stoned since John the Baptist was considered a prophet by the people. They clearly have very little consideration for truth over public image. They are unwilling to stand for their convictions, telling Jesus they “don’t know” so that they might still carry authority over the people and keep their approval. They have no real power. They are only confirming that Jesus’ true authority is from God and that they are not in control.The good news, the best news, is that Jesus did get His authority from God and continues to live in that authority. He is the fulfillment of prophesies long foretold and the answer to the incompleteness of our hearts. Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 shows us that God always intended to send a savior to cover the sins of His people and to bring them peace. He always intended to send Jesus because in Him “steadfast love and faithfulness meet; righteousness and peace kiss each other”. God promised that He would give them a “new heart, and a new spirit” and that He would “put [His] Spirit within [them]”. He promises to be the God of His people and pull them close to Him. Without sending Jesus, without giving Him authority over sin and death, this could not happen.
* * * * * * *
Discuss: Where are you questioning God and His motives in your life? How can you follow the example of Jesus rather than your own desires? How are you looking for people’s approval rather than the approval of God?
Pray:
Dear Father,
Thank you for what you have done through Jesus Christ and how you sent Him to us. Thank you for His example and for how you had Him pay the price so that we could have your Word in our hearts. Help us to follow Him rather than question Him. Amen
To download the full Advent devotional visit www.allmomdoes.com
Comments