Mark 1: 29-39
As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her. So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.
That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”
Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else–to the nearby villages–so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.
A Thought
The ministry of Jesus began on the Sabbath in the synagogue by teaching the people and by using his authority to drive out the evil spirits that recognized him as the “Holy One of God!”. Now after leaving the synagogue, Jesus healed Simon’s mother-in-law of a fever. Her healing was immediate and complete and she began to wait on them. Jesus continued to heal the people that had came, but Jesus would not allow the demons to speak perhaps, because Jesus needed to complete his ministry for which he came–to preach the gospel. Jesus left us an example that we all need to follow when he separated himself from everyone and prayed.
Our Prayer
Father we need your power within us to accomplish the work you have gifted each of us to share your message of the gospel. Lead us to the truth of your word with wisdom and revelation that we may fully live by the examples of your Son with your love and mercy. We ask in Jesus’ name, amen.
