Rev. Lars Haukeland – studies

HEAL in Mark

This is a study of Mark that can be used as a devotional. I will go through each of the Gospels using the acrostic of HEAL to each Gospel. HEAL stands for:

H = Honour God with commitment of time to study His Word

E = Examine your heart and pray to invite Him into your study

A = Ask God to reveal His truths in each passage

L = Listen to what He says and write it down

Using these principals, we will go through each book together and see what we can gleam from God’s fantastic and infallible Word. May God bless you through His Word! He wants you to live a healthy and godly life – today…

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Part 1: Meeting Mark (also known as John or John Mark)

“51 And there followed him a certain young man, having a linen cloth cast about his naked body; and the young men laid hold on him:

52 And he left the linen cloth, and fled from them naked.“

Mark 14:51-52

“12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.“

Acts 12:12

“36And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.

37And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.

38But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.

39And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;“

Acts 15:36-39

Mark was one of the 12 disciples of Jesus. He was one of the many who had heard of Jesus by His reputation as great Healer, and joined the crowd to witness the mighty works of God. When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem on what we call “Palm Sunday”, Mark undoubtedly found a place among the crowd who welcomed the Saviour with palm braches and cloaks laid in the path, as a conquering Hero.

During Passove week, church tradition holds that it was in the “upper room” of Mark’s own father’d house that Jesus gathered with His disciples for the last supper, a time of preperation and prayer before Jesus would be arrested in the olive grove known as the Grden of Gethsamane. How did Mark know tat there was one young man, wrapped in a sheet, lurking on the sidelines to obserbe the way by which his Hero was ambushed and arrested, and the commotion that followed? Was it Mark who panicked when the soldiers grabbed him. leaving his sheet in their hands, running naked in fear of his own life?

The next time we see Mark in the Bible, he has joined the apostle Paul and gone on the very first hazardous trek to spread the Gospel salvation of healing, love and eternal life to the world surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. That is, untill he became overcome by the dangers of the mission, and he abandoned it, leaving for the familiar safety and comfort of home.

Interestigly, the next time Paul set out to visit the young churces they had planted on the first journey, he refused to trust Maek, the quitter, to accompany him. It was Barnabas who took the aspiring young evangelist under his wing and gave him the opportunity to prove himself an apostle.

Ultimarely, it was the apostle Peter that Mark attached himself to. He became lie a son to Peter. It was from Pete’s sharing of his personal experiences with Jesus that Mark gathered the details of the Master’s words and works, ministry and miracles, deciding to spread the Good News in writing.

Thus, we have Mark’s own Gospel, the first account of Jesus Christ put into writing for us to meet , not only Maek, but alsi his hero-Saviour and Lord Jesus. Throught Mark’s Gospel, we hear of His power to heal and save those who trust Him as their own saving, healing Lord-

Questions:

  • Which experience of Mark can you identify with?
  • How does knowing a little more about Mark impact your desire to read his Gospel and his stories about Jesus?
  • Have you ever known someone that breached your own confidence and trust, but looking back, you wish yoy would have given them another chance?

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Part 2: Demon-possessed at the synagogue

“21 And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught.

22 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.

23 And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out,

24 Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.

25 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him.

26 And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him.

27 And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.

28 And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee.“

Mark 1:21-28

Jesus was in the seaside town of Capernaum on a Sabbath. He went into a local synagogue and began to preach. Can you imagine Jesus stopping by yoyr church to preach one day? He spoke with authority, not as the teachers of the law had taught. That’s because He literally was, and still is, the Word of God in the flesh (John 1:1-2).

There was a deomn-possessed man in the synagogue that day. Could it be that he had hidden this spiritual affliction? When face-to-face with the Son of God, the demon could no longer hide for fear of Jesus. Notice how Jesus reacted to this deomn.possessed man who was interrupting His teaching. He said “Hold thy peace, and come out of him” (1:25). And the demon left the man shrieking at that that moment. All those attending that day saw Jesus’ power to cast out evil spirits.

Questions:

  • Does it surprise you the demon-possessed man was at the synagogue?
  • Did you notice how Jesus cast out the demon? What can we learn from Jesus’ approach to ridding this poor soul of demonic possession?
  • Scriptures say that Jesus taught with authority. Have you ever witnessed someone teaching with authority versus someone, say, just teaching? Do you think it matters whowe sit under and by what authority they teach? How so?

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Part 3: Gathering at the door

“29 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

30 But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her.

31 And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

32 And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.

33 And all the city was gathered together at the door.

34 And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.“

Mark 1:29-34

Jesus was still in Vapernaum and headed to the home of Simon (Peter) and Andrew. Peter’s mother-in-law was sick, so they brought Jesus to her. Taking her hand, He halped g\her up and the fever left her. She didn’t ask for the healing. Instead, her son-in-law, who personally knew Jesus, brought Jesus to her.

Later that evening, people came to bring their sick loved ones to Jesus. Picture the entire town gathered around the door of Peter and Andrew’s tiny house. These people wanted help for their loved ones and crowded the door where they knew Jesus was staying. The account says Jesus healed many who had various diseases and were demon-possessed.

Questions:

  • In this account, the sick did not seak out Jesus, but their loved ones brought them to Him and He healed them. What dose this say to you about approaching Jesus?
  • As you picture the entire town gathered at the door, wjat comes to mind as you think of these people and their sick loved ones?
  • What did you learn about Jesus from this account?

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Part 4: Time with God

“35 And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

36 And Simon and they that were with him followed after him.

37 And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee.

38 And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth.

39 And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.“

Mark 1:35-39

After a night of nonstop healings in Capernaum, Jesus got up before sunrise to be alone and pray to God. The night before, He had just ministered to the entire town seeking healing for their sick and demon-possessed loved ones.

It’s refreshing to see that the Son of God placed a priority on being alone with His heavenly Father. He had just been serving, helping, listening, healing and caring for people, but now this was Hid time to refocus and regenerate, and how does He do so? He spends time with God. He too needed a time of refreshing.

His alone time was cut short when His disciples told Him that everyone was looking for Him. But Jesus said “Let us go into the next towns” (1:38). Although physical healing was a big part of Jesus’ ministry, what did He say was His reason for coming? He had more preaching to do.

Questions:

  • Why do you think Jesus made time to be alone and pray to God?
  • What is the importance of taking time to rest and focus when you are caring for others or yourself?
  • Why do you think Jesus was ready to move to the next town?

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Part 5: If you are willing

“40 And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

41 And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.

42 And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed.

43 And he straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away;

44 And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

45 But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter.“

Mark 1:40-45

“If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean” (1:40). This is what a man with leprosy said to Jesus. Jesus had compassion for the man, touched him and said “I will” (1:41). He healed him rifgt there, giving him instructions to tell no one of his healing, but go to the priests, offersacrifices for his healing as a testimony to them. Instead, the healed man went aound telling everyone his good news. Would you blame the man for spreading the word?

The account is where we see an immediate healing due to this man’s faith. He believer Jesus could heal him and begged for it. He sought Jesus as the One who could heal him. No matter if Jesus g\heals immediately or over time, we are to learn from this man’s faith that Jesus is willing!

Questions:

  • Why do you think Jesus heals some people immediately and others over time?
  • Why do you think Jesus wanted the priests to see this healing?
  • What do you think of the fact that the man essentially went against Jesus’ instructions to “say nothing to any man” and instead spoke freely about it, spreading the news? What does Scripture say is the impact or outcome that it had on Jesus?

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Part 6: Caregivers

“1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house.

2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them.

3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four.

4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.

5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.

6 But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts,

7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?

8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts?

9 Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk?

10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)

11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.“

Markus 2:1-12

Caring for someone you love who is sick can take it’s toll on you. The endless hospital visits, hospital stays and worrty that your loved one will not get better can weigh you down, So if you knew there was somone who could heal your loved one, wouldn’t you do anything?

This account tales placein Capernaum, late one night, where Jesus had already healed many in the town. Four men planned to bring their paralytic loved one to Jesus, but because of the dense crowds, they couldn’t get to Him. Desperate to have their loved one healed, they climbed on the roof of the house where Jesus was and took the tiles off lo lower him down. They were willing to risk embarrassment, and more importantly, destruction of personal property to get this man before Jesus.

When we read this account closely, look at the role of the men. Their actions made a tremendous impact on Jesus. It wasn’t the actions of the man who was paralyzed, but the faith of his friends. Jesys then said something we don’t want to miss. Instead of telling the man to walk, He said to the paralytic man “ Son, thy sins be forgiven thee” (2:5). Telling him his sins were forgiven isn’t exactly what the man was expecting. As a matter of fact, the teachers of the law thought Jesus was blaspheming God. Jesus then asked them why they were thinking such things. He questioned which was easier to understand: “Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? (2:9).

Jesus turned to the paralytic man and spoke directly to him with instructions to get up, carry his mat and go home. The dedication and faith that Jesus could heal their friend was rewarded with him leaving that house on his own two feet, carrying the mat he had laid on.

I want to encourage you to read this account again. Did the audience and the man possibly miss something important that Jesus was trying to convey wjen He responded to their need?

Questions:

  • Can you identify with these men who were desperate to see their loved one healed?
  • Why do you think Jesus would speak to the gift of forgiveness of sins versus the gift of healing? Do you think they go hand in hand?
  • Do our actions line up with out faith?

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Part 7: Standing up

“1 And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand.

2 And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him.

3 And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth.

4 And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace.

5 And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.

6 And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel with the Herodians against him, how they might destroy him.“

Markus 3:1-6

Jesus was in a synagogue on the Sabbath. Worshipping there that day was a man with a shriveled hand. Seeing the man, Jesus said to him: “Stand forth” (King James for “stand up in front of everyone”). Note that key statement. Jesus didn’t pull this guy over to the side and quietly heal his habd. No, He wanted everyone, including His critics, to see Him heal this man on the Sabbath.

The man had to stand up in front of everyone. His deformity was put on full display. If he had been hidingthis under a cloak, he could not do it anymore. By standing up and being obedient, his need was front stage for everyone to soon see a healing. He didn’t know what Jesus was going to do. He didn’t refuse due to embarressment. He simply obeyed, giving his full attention to the Healer, and Jesus healed him on the spot.

Questions:

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Part 8: Crowding Jesus

“7 But Jesus withdrew himself with his disciples to the sea: and a great multitude from Galilee followed him, and from Judaea,

8 And from Jerusalem, and from Idumaea, and from beyond Jordan; and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great things he did, came unto him.

9 And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should throng him.

10 For he had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon him for to touch him, as many as had plagues.

11 And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God.

12 And he straitly charged them that they should not make him known.“

Mark 3:7-12

Have you ever stood in line at a Black Friday sale waiting with hundreds of people until they opened the doors? It can be a free-for-all as people crowd, push and run for the greatest deals. In today’s account, Jesus is the reason everyone flocked to the Galilee region. People heard of His healing power and they wanted it for themselves.

It says in 3:10: “For he had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon him for to touch him.” There were so many people that Jesus had His disciples get a small boat to keep people from crowding Him.

Wee too can seek Jesus with as much fervour as these people did. They made seeking Him their priority over schedules, work etc. They looked to Him for their ultimate healing, and so can we.

Questions:

  • When was the last time you were with others crowding in to see or experience something? What was happening around you?
  • Have you ever desperately sought God for something, sacrificing your effort in doing so?
  • Why do you think that Jesus did’t want the people crowding Him? Was it about His comfort, or other’s access?

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Part 9: Spiritually tormented

“1 And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.

2 And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,

3 Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains:

4 Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him.

5 And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.

6 But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,

7 And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.

8 For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.

9 And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.

10 And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.

11 Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.

12 And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.

13 And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.

14 And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done.

15 And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.

16 And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.

17 And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts.

18 And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.

19 Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.

20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.“

Mark 5:1-20

“8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour“

1 Peter 5:8

Today’s account features a man possessed by many demons. He was known by the townspeople, and yet he lived in isolation among the tombs. He is described as a man who was often bound and chained, but unable to be subdued due to his supernatural strength. His extreme mental anguish and agony were on full display as he cried out day and night, cutting himself in pain.

One day, Jesus was nearby, and the tormented man approached Him. Jesus said to the demon possessing the man, “Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit” (5:8). The demon cried out: “What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not” (5:7). The demonic spirits knew the power of Jesus to rid this man of his chains of torment. Commanding the spirits to leave him, Jesus sent the evil spirits into a herd of about 2000 pigs that were driven into a lake and drowned. What happened to the man next? We see him sitting, dressed and in his right mind.

Today, the enemy still prowls like a lion seeking to devour and destroy. He isolates individuals from friends and family via depression, addictions, sin, shame,whispering lies and robbing people of their sound mind and peace. The devil and his demons have limited reign here on earth, but they can certainly wreak havoc on the lives of others.

Notice what Jesus said to the man when it was time for Him to leave. Instead of allowing the man to join Him on the boat, Jesus told the man: “ Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee” (5:19). This man was no longer with his family, and most likely either retreated himself to the tombs or was driven away into isolation from them. Can you imagine the surprise when he knocked on their door? Their prodegal son was home, telling of a healing encounter with the Son of God!

Questions:

  • Did reading today’s passage make you wonder what this man looked like? How is he described, and what are the characteristics of possessed people?
  • Do you think the man wanted to leave Jesus side after he got healed? Why do you think Jesus told him to go to his family?
  • What does the Scriptures tell us to do to fight our spiritual enemy?

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Part 10: Just believe

“21 And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea.

22 And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet,

23 And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.

24 And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him.“

Mark 5:21-24

“35 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?

36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.

37 And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James.

38 And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly.

39 And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.

40 And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.

41 And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.

42 And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment.

43 And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.“

Mark 5:35-43

Jairus is the principal character in this account. He was a synagogue ruler, so when his little daughter became deathly ill, ignoring what others might say, he fell down at Jesus’ feet pleading for her healing. Can you relate? He was laser focused on one thing – he wanted his daughter to live.

While in the crowd, some men told him that his daughter had just died. Upon hearing this terrible news, Jesus told him “Be not afraid, only believe” (5:36). Jesus could say this because He had power to raise the dead. And even though his daughter was dead, Jairus believed Jesus and took Him to his home to see his daughter.

By outward appearance, she was dead. Mourners were in the house wailing and grieving her loss, but they had no clue that Jesus was about to change everything. He said “the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth” (5:39). Sending out the mourners, Jesus gathered her parents together and went into the room, Taking her by the hand, He speaks to the little girl and says: “Damsel, I say unto thee, arise” (5:41). Immediately, she stood up and began to walk around. Completely astonished, we can only imagine those flute playing mourners were now playing a new tune!

Questions:

  • What do the words of Jesus, “be not afarid, only believe,” mean to you?
  • Jairus could have given up when they said his daughter was dead. What does this say about his faith?
  • Are there any “naysayers” in your life that you are listening to instead of believing in what God can do?

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Part 11: Freed from suffering

“24 And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him.

25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,

26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,

27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.

28 For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.

29 And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.

30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes?

31 And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?

32 And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.

33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth.

34 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.“

Mark 5:24-34

This passage of Scripture is nestled right in the middle of the accound about Jairus’ daugheter. Jesus was on His way to Jairus’ house when a woman with long-term bleeding problem entered the picture. If you or a loved one has suffered a long time with a chronic illness or desease, then you can relate to the woman in this account. She had suffered 12 years with a bleeding disorder. It’s very likely, due to Jewish law, her condition made her ceremonially unclen and therefore ostricized from her society.

This woman heard that Jesus was in town, so she sought Him out. We see the extent of her long-term suffering in verse 26: She “had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,“

Word had gotten around town about Jesus, so having nothing to lose, she joined the crowds pushing against Him, all seeking healing. Believing He had power to heal her, she felt that all she needed to do was reach out and touch His clothes. Just touching the hem of His garment would be enough in her eyes. So when she reached out and touched His cloak, she immediately felt in her body that she was healed.

But she wasn’t the only one that felt that touch. Jesus felt it as well, “knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him” (5:30). Confusing His disciples due to the multitude pushing up against Him, Jesus asked who had touched Him. Trembling and fearful, she told the whole truth.

This act of faith is what got this response from Jesus: “Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague” (5:34). And she did.

Questions:

  • Why do you think this woman sought Jesus after all her disappointments?
  • Why do you think Jesus asked who touched Him?
  • Whst can you learn from this woman’s faith which led to her healing?

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Part 12: The 12 disciples go out healing people

“1 (A Psalm of David.) The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Psalm 23

“7 And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits;

8 And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse:

9 But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats.

10 And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place.

11 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.

12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent.

13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.“

Mark 6:7-13

Jesus gathered His 12 disciples, paired them off two by two, and gave them authority over evil spirits. They were to take nothing with them but a staff. Interesting that a staff is the primary tool of a shepherd. It was used to protect the sheep, direct them and even yank them by the neck if they were going in the wrong direction.

These 12 men were to go out preaching repentance, driving out evil spirits and healing people. They also anointed many sick people with oil, healing them. Anointing with oil is another shepherd’s tool. Shepherds would poor oil on sheep’s heads to relieve them of nasal flies that would cause great aggravation and inflammation. King David ever wrote about this practice in Psalm 23:5 “thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.“

Questions:

  • Why do you think Jesus gave His disciples authority over evil spirits?
  • Why do you think the disciples were only to take a staff with them?
  • What does the sheep/shepherd analogy mean to you?

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Part 13: Running to Jesus

“53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore.

54 And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him,

55 And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was.

56 And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole.“

Mark 6:53-56

Picture Abraham Lincoln in your mind. Ha had a long face, usually with a beard, and a long weary look from the wages of leading a country at war. You and I have never met Honest Abe, but we recognize his face from picture, paintings and statutes of him.

Now put yourself in the days of Jesus. There were no magazines, photos nor social media apps to feature the likes of Jesus, yet in this account, people rcognized Jesus. How could they know what He looked like unless He had done some crazy cool stuff and word got out quickly?

That’s exactly what was going on in this story as Jesus arrived with His disciples and achored their boats. People immediately recognized Him and ran to get their sick loved ones in the hope that He might cure them. They went so far as to put them on mats and run to the marketplace to get them before Jesus. There was no mobile phone to alert them when Jesus was coming. They waited with great expectation for Jesus.

Have you ever carried a grown adult around? That’s not an easy task. It’s not like they could put the person in a car and rush over. They literally carried them from all over the region, not knowing if He’d still be there. They believed that if they only touched the edge of His cloak, He would heal them.

So when they heard stories in marketplaces, around the town wells and in synagogues of this guy Jesus who had actually healed people, you can bet they got a detailed description of Him so they would never miss an oportunity if He was in their midst. Would you do the same?

Questions:

  • Is there anyone you’d drop everything to go see?
  • If Jesus came to town today, what would you do?
  • Recognizing Jesus meant they had heard of Him and His miracles. Are you seeking Jesus?

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Part 14: Barging in

“24 And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid.

25 For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet:

26 The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter.

27 But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it unto the dogs.

28 And she answered and said unto him, Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children’s crumbs.

29 And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter.

30 And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed.“

Mark 7:24-30

Have you ever gone home one day and just wanted time alone? No distractions. No work. No one needing you. Just quiet time. In this account, Jesus was in that mode. He was in a house with His disciples. The text says He did not want anyone to know it, yet He could not keep His presence sevret.

Barging into the home comes a woman whose little daughter was demon-possessed. It may seem rude that she interupted Jesus’ personal time with His disciples. She didn’t care because she was a mother desperate to see her child healed. This interruption is a possible explanation for Jesaus saying “Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it unto the dogs” (7:27). He was the Bread of Life and was having time alon with His disciples. This time alone was a priority, yet the woman’s response to His rebuke showed her great faith.

She replied: “Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children’s crumbs” (7:29). She was willing to get just a crumb from Jesus because she believed a small crumb of His power could heal her daughter. Jesus rewarded her faith by healing her daughter.

Questions:

  • What did you learn from this woman’s persistance for her daughter?
  • What did you learn about Jesus and His response the her?
  • Have you ever been so desperate you’d just take a crumb?

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Part 15: Jesus heals a deaf man

“31 And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis.

32 And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech; and they beseech him to put his hand upon him.

33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue;

34 And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him, Ephphatha, that is, Be opened.

35 And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain.

36 And he charged them that they should tell no man: but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it;

37 And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.“

Mark 7:31-37

Immediately following Jesus’ respite in Tyre, He went into Decapolis where some people brought Him a man who was deaf and mute, and begged Him to place His hands on the man. Look closely at what Jesus did next. It’s actually quite unconventional.

The people asked Jesus to place His hands upon the man. Jesus went one step further. He led the man away from the crowd, put His fingers into the man’s ears and touched the man’s mouth. With a deep sigh, Jesus said to the man, “Be opened” (7:35).

The man’s ears were opened and he began to speak plainly. Again, Jesus told them not to tell anyone whar had happened. Word continued to spread, and people were overwhelmed with amazement at what Jesus had done, making the deaf hear and the mute speak.

Questions:

  • What did the people ask of Jesus when they brought the man to Him?
  • Whar are yoyr thoughts about why Jesus put His fingers in the man’s ear and spit and touch his tongue?
  • Jesus did not want others to know what He was doing. What do you think you would do if you were in their situation?

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Part 16: Forgetting God’s past provisions

“11 And the Pharisees came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him.

12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation.

13 And he left them, and entering into the ship again departed to the other side.

14 Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf.

15 And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod.

16 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have no bread.

17 And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, Why reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart yet hardened?

18 Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?

19 When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve.

20 And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? And they said, Seven.

21 And he said unto them, How is it that ye do not understand?“

Mark 8:11-21

Have you ever gotten in the car and realized once on your way that have forgotten something? Not a good feeling. Today’s account is not an actual healing, but it certainly has a principle to rememer when you are on your healing journey. The principle is never to forget God’s past provisions on your behalf.

Here’s a little backstory into this account. Jesus and His disciples had just fed about 4000 men, women and children with just seven loaves of bread. Don’t get this confused with the story of the feeding of the 5000 + women and children with five loaves of bread and two fishes- That account was before this one. This was the second time Jesus had performed a miracle and fed a really huge crowd.

Now, Jesus and the disciples are sailing in a boat, and the disciples had forgotten to bring bread with then for the trip. They only had one loaf in the boat. Instead of remembering God’s provision from the very recent past, they completely forgot about the miracle they had just seen and experienced firsthand. Talk about amnesia! Jesus Himself had to remind them of the past two miracles concerning bread and all the leftovers they gathered.

Just like us, the disciples have seen God do amazing things in their lives, but can easily forget these past provisions ang get caught up in the current circumstances. You may not have seen a huge miracle as they did, but how often do we run to God, fearful that He won’t come through with our problem? The reality is that He’s right ther with us, waiting for us to put our trust in Him.

Questions:

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Part 17: Second time’s a charm

“22 And he cometh to Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to touch him.

23 And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town; and when he had spit on his eyes, and put his hands upon him, he asked him if he saw ought.

24 And he looked up, and said, I see men as trees, walking.

25 After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every man clearly.

26 And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.“

Mark 8:22-26

We find Jesus visiting the village of Bethsaida in this account. Some people brought a blind man to Him, and they begged Jesus to touch the man. Instead of healing the man right there on the spot, Jesus took him by the hand and, like the account of the deaf man in Mark 7:31-36, Jesus led him away from the crowds.

Once outside the village, Jesus spat on the man’s eyes and put His hands on him. Jesus asked him what he sawm and the man replied: “I see men as trees, walking” (8:24). So this tells us it wasn’t immediate, all.at-once healing. Once more Jesus put His hands on the man’s eyes, and then his eyes were opened and he saw clearly.

This second time his sight was completely restored – no longer did he have blurry vision, but 20/20. Isn’t it interesting how the healing took place in stages? Do you think Jesus could have healed the man all at once? Once the man was healed completely, Jesus instructed him not to go into the village. Wonder why?

Questions:

  • What reason do you think Jesus brought the man out of the village to heal him?
  • Can you relate to healing in stages? How does this passage speak to you?
  • When Jesus heals, can we trust the outcome?

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Part 18: If you can

“14 And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes questioning with them.

15 And straightway all the people, when they beheld him, were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him.

16 And he asked the scribes, What question ye with them?

17 And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit;

18 And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him: and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away: and I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not.

19 He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me.

20 And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.

21 And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child.

22 And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us.

23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.

26 And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.

27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.

28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?

29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.“

Mark 9:14-29

Put yourself in the shoes of the father in this story. For years, he saw his son tormented by an evil spirit that caused the boy to have convulsions, experience suicidal tendencies and be mute. The boy could not even verbalize the agony he was going through. This desperate father sought the help of the discipkes to rid his son of this demon, yet the disciples could not drive out the spirit. Then, Jesus came on the scene.

The man explained his son’s dire situation and how he had already reached out to the disciples for help, but to no avail. Then he said something many of us have found ourselves saying: “but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us” (9:22). Look at Jesus’ response: “If thou canst believe“ (9:23). Wow! Can you imagine Jesus saying that to you? Jesus followed up that question by saying: “all things are possible to him that believeth” (9:23). All things. Belief is the key to the possible.

The man was honest with Jesus and said “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief” (9:24). Do you find yourself in his shoes? Jesus, if you can heal my cancer… Jesus, if you can heal my son… Jesus, if you can heal my marriage… If you can…. just fill in the blank,

Jesus commanded the spirit to come out of the man’s son. Do you think the man’s prayer asking for help with his unbelief was answered? We can all learn from the compassion of Jesus to work with us and heal us despite our own belief.

Questons:

  • Do you identify with the father in the story? In wat ways?
  • Have you ever prayed “If you can” prayers to Jesus? What was the result?
  • Do you believe that everthing is possible if you believe? How does this mans prayer of help to overcome his unbelief speak to you today?

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Part 19: Throwing his cloak aside

“46 And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.

47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

48 And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

49 And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called. And they call the blind man, saying unto him, Be of good comfort, rise; he calleth thee.

50 And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus.

51 And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? The blind man said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight.

52 And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way.“

Markus 10:46-52

Blind beggar Bartimaeus sat day in and day out by his cloak on the roadside of Jericho begging for food or money. This was his life. Bartimaesus heard Jesus walking by and, instead of quietly beghing, he yelled out loudly for Jesus. He didn’t care that others were trying to shush him. Because of his loud calling, Jesus “commanded him to be called” (10:49). This reminds me of the saying: The squeaky wheel gets oiled. Anyway, good oold Bart threw his cloak aside, the item that most likely identified him as a begger, and scrambled onto his feet to move toward the voice of Jesus.

Imagine Jesus asking you “What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?” (10:51). Isn’t that the million dollar (or pound) question we’d all love Jesus to ask us? Bartimaeus answered in a very straightforward manner “Lord, that I might receive my sight” (10:51). And Jesus response was “Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole” (10:52). Suddenly, he could see. The man, Jesus, had given him exactly what he asked for and more, including freedom from a life of relying on others. Hus desire after was to follow Jesus.

Questions:

  • Is there a metaphirical “cloak” in your life, a daily reminder of your illness or condition?
  • What would you say to Jesus if He asked you “What do you want me to do for you?”
  • Bartimaeus had to get up and move toward Jesus’ voice. Has Jesus called out to you for something and is awaiting your response?

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Part 20: Jesus is resurrected

“ 21And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.

22 And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull.

23 And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not.

24 And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.

25 And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.

26 And the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS.

27 And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left.

28 And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.

29 And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days,

30 Save thyself, and come down from the cross.

31 Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save.

32 Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him.

33 And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.

34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

35 And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias.

36 And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down.

37 And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost.

38 And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.

39 And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.

40 There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;

41 (Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto him;) and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem.

42 And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath,

43 Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.

44 And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.

45 And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph.

46 And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.

47 And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid.“

Mark 15:21-47

“1 And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.

2 And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.

3 And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?

4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.

5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.

6 And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.

7 But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.

8 And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.“

Mark 16:1-8

“1 (To the chief Musician upon Aijeleth Shahar, A Psalm of David.) My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?“

Psalm 22:1

One can’t read the resurrection story without first seeing how Jesus suffered on the cross – for you, me, everyone. This innocent man took the sins of the world so that you and I could be forgiven of our sins and reconciled with God. His blood poured out for you and me bridges that gap to God that sin caused. Take a moment or two to really experience the who, what, why, when and how of the crucifixion before you get to the resurrection part. It’s a moment in time that literally changed history and has eternal consequences. Don’t miss a detail!

Scripture tells us that during the cricifixion, there comes a time of great darkness over the land, and Jesus cries out: “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (15:34). Jesus was quoting Psalm 22, a prophecy of His cricifixion, describing His experience and asserting the victory of God over death. He knew this was the fulfillment of God’s plan. At that very moment, Jesus was experiencing the horror of seperation from His heavenly Fathe because His Father could not look on sin, the sin that Jesus was carrying on our behalf. When we place our faith and trust in Him, we can know that He has removed or sins as far from us as the East is from the West. We will never be seperated or forsaken by God (Psalm 103:12).

fter His death, Jesus body was quickly taken and put in a garden tomb as the Sabbath was approaching and they could not leave a dead body outside. Due to the haste of taking His body down, it wasn’t properly prepared, so that’s why on Resurrection Day, the two Marys and Salome were headed to visit the tomb to prepare Jesus’ body with spices. They came to the tomb in obedience to do what was right, wondering about the obstacles that they may face. Did you catch in the account what the women were worried about? They asked each other: “Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?” (16:3). Scripture tells us the obstacle was never a barrier for God.

Place yourself in the sandals of the women as they arrived to an empty tomb. The stone had been rolled away. As they entered, an angel sitteing there told them: “he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him. But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter” (16:6-7).

The angel pointed out “and Peter“. Do you think God knew Peter needed extra encouragement that even in spite of his mistakes of denying Jesus after His arrest, he was still one of them? Do you think we sometimes need a reminder of who we are in Christ, in spite of what we think? Remember, Peter had just betrayed Jesus three times before He was cricified. What a beautiful promise, that nothing in this world “shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39). The women came to the tomb preparing for death, but ran out of the tomb to share a message with the world: He is alive!

Questions:

  • How does it make you feel to know that Jesus also experienced a seperation from God? Does that make you identify with Him more?
  • What does it mean to you that the angel asked the woman to “tell the disciples and Peter?” What does this say about God’s compassion and forgiveness?
  • Do you believe that Jesus died on the cross specifically for you and your sins? Have you asked Him to forgive you of your sins?

Becoming a Christian is as easy as A, B, C.

A. Adimt that you’re a sinner

B. Believe that Jesus died for you on the cross

C. Confess that He is the Lord of your life from now on.

After we have received Jesus as our own personal Saviour, we still need to daily surrender to His will. Only a walk with Him (living close to Him, following Jesus will for your life) will give you His peace, love and healing.

THE END