Set Your Mind on Christ Challenge – Day 3

I hope you’re hanging in there with the challenge. I’m sure enjoying all the rich lessons from immersing myself in Jesus this week. Be sure to leave your comments and questions. We’d love to hear how this is shaping you!

Observations:

• Jesus’ ministry is constantly proclaiming good news with his mouth and being good news with his deeds.
• Jesus expects that his people will obey him. This theme is relentless (6:46; 8:15, 21; 11:28).
• Jesus has authority over nature (calming storm), legions of demons (the Demoniac), sickness (the woman with the issue of blood), and even death (Jairus’ daughter).
• Following Jesus means following him into costly suffering (9:22-27, 57-62).
• We should listen to Jesus, God’s Son (9:35)
• Jesus equates following him with “proclaiming the kingdom of God” (9:60).
• Jesus longs for kingdom workers to go to the harvest fields (10:2).
• Loving our neighbor happens anytime his need meets our opportunity (10:25-37).
• Our serving should not get in the way of our humble listening to Jesus (10:41-42).
• Our prayer life should begin with adoring God’s fame and seeking first his kingdom, even before our needs (11:2).
• God would love to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask (11:13).
• Jesus cares more about the heart than the outward appearance (11:39-44).

How would I be different if this truth were explosively alive in my innermost being?

• I would not only be willing to serve those in need, but eager to do so. Jesus seems eager to bless people, help them, and care for them. Even when the crowds get overwhelming or the need seems too great, he doesn’t get flustered. Rather, he helps them with grace and truth. May God make me a man who loves to serve!

What about you? How is God using this passage in your life? Questions or Comments?