Wednesday, July 30, 2014
One of my prayers to God when I started out in the ministry was that He would help me put myself in the place of the different players in every bible story. I felt that if I could do that, I would have a better feel and appreciation for each particular player and be in a better position to relate, empathize, and understand them. In turn, I thought that would help me to better convey the story’s message to others. Perhaps that is one reason a favorite gospel story of mine is the one in the 9th Chapter of Mark about a father who had a demon possessed son. As a father, and now as a grandfather, I know the pain and often the feeling of helplessness that rips the heart when we see our children or loved ones suffering. He brought the lad to Jesus’ Disciples but they could do nothing for him. Just at the time that he felt all hope was gone and not by coincidence, I might add, Jesus arrived on the scene. Judging by his interaction with Christ, it appears that this poor father had lost whatever faith he may have had when he first encountered the Disciples. If their lack of success was the reason his faith was shattered, that gives us plenty to think about as God’s children. When we have contact with others, do we strengthen or weaken their faith? Perhaps that is also the reason his plea to the Lord was, “But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” (Mark 9:22) With those of us who know the Lord, our biggest hurdle is not can He, but will He?
Some of you who are reading this blog today may have found yourself in a situation similar to the one of the father of this demon possessed boy. You may have gone through a longer time than you expected struggling to cope with a situation you just can’t free yourself from. In your case too, your faith may have waned because of something you have seen or experienced. Jesus told this poor anguished father,“Everything is possible for him who believes.” (Mk 9:23) The same also goes for you and me. By faith, therefore, I believe that Jesus has arrived at your scene today. I don’t believe in coincidences so I strongly suspect that this could be your day.
No situation in life lasts forever, so no matter what it is that you have been yearning for, get ready for a breakthrough. Whether your situation involves your finances, health, job, career, a broken relationship which needs to be restored, or any other issue, I would not be surprised if this is your time, for with God, all things are possible.
Memory verse for the week: (Ephesians 4:31) Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.
