Mark 7

 The dramatic actions by Jesus caused a huge commotion. Many wanted to see more. Some wanted healing for their ailments. Others questioned what was really going on with this Teacher. The awe of what Hs was doing and saying resulted in many reactions. How would you or I  respond if we were eye witnesses?  I wonder if many Americans would be more fixed on the stock market, the weather, sports teams, or political chatter. Have we lost the awe factor of what God is doing in our world?  Do we really expect the mystery and wonder of His kingdom to happen in us or around us?  May we have a fire ignited in us to search for what He is doing and will do  

“The mere belief of the facts and doctrines of Christianity will never save our souls. Such belief is no better than the belief of devils. They all believe and know that Jesus is the Christ. They believe that He will one day judge the world and cast them down to endless torment in hell. It is a solemn and sorrowful thought that on these points some professing Christians have even less faith than the devil. There are some who doubt the reality of hell and the eternity of punishment. Such doubts as these find no place except in the hearts of self-willed men and women. There is no infidelity among devils. The demons also believe, and shudder (James 2:19).” - Excerpt, Expository Thoughts on the Gospel of Mark by J. C. Ryle

“The news of these unusual events spread rapidly. The result was Jesus’s reputation began to spread like wildfire (Mark 1:28). From this point on in his Galilean ministry, huge crowds would gather around him wherever he was.27 The press of the crowds was so constant, he had to be intentional to find time alone or time with his disciples. Sadly, the majority of the people were seemingly drawn by his power to heal rather than by what he taught.” - Excerpt, Following Jesus: Discipleship in the Gospel of Mark by Steve Langford