Hope for Today

In this episode, J. Mark studies Mark 7:31-37 where Jesus heals a man who was deaf. The crowd responded to this miracle by saying, “He does all things well.” In this passage, we see the many ways that Jesus does do all things well—by responding in faith, understanding and respecting our feelings, and not doing good only for the glory. Join us to learn how “He Does All Things Well.” 

In this episode, J. Mark explores the remarkable faith of the Syro-Phoenician mother in Mark 7:24-30. The whole of Mark 7 challenges the Jews’ view of purity, and this story highlights this theme as well. Though Jesus initially seems to reject her plea for her demon-possessed daughter, she persists in faith. Jesus honors her faith by healing her daughter. Join us as we explore how to have persistent faith in the One who provides. 

How do we become impure? Jesus answers this question in Mark 7:14-23, the passage explored in today’s episode. Earlier in Mark 7, the Pharisees accuse Jesus and his disciples of being defiled because they did not properly wash their hands according to tradition. In this passage, Jesus responds to that accusation by revealing that we are not defiled by outward things, but by what comes from within. True defilement comes from the heart, from which sinful thoughts and actions flow out. Listen to this episode as we explore how Jesus reveals the real source of impurity and what it means for us today.

In today’s episode, we examine Mark 7:1-13, where the Pharisees confront Jesus and his followers for not washing their hands. Rather than focusing on outward rituals, Jesus urges the Pharisees to examine their own hearts. In this episode, J. Mark examines the dangers and downfall that come when tradition is elevated above true worship and a heart of obedience. 

If Jesus cares, why does He allow storms in our lives? In today’s episode, J. Mark explores that question through Mark 6:45-56, where Jesus walks on the water and reveals His divine identity with the words, “I AM.” Looking at three moments of aloneness within the passage, J. Mark shows how God uses life’s storms not to abandon us, but to reveal His power and His person in deeper ways and to remind us that in the storm, He is near. 

Does Jesus care? It’s a question we often ask when we’re walking through difficult times. In today’s episode, J. Mark turns to Mark 6:30-44 to reveal the answer. Through the account of the feeding of the 5,000, we see Jesus’ deep compassion as He recognizes and meets the needs of those around Him. This passage reminds us that the same Savior who cared for the crowd still cares for us today.

In this episode, J. Mark studies Mark 6:14-29, which is the account of John the Baptist’s death. This text highlights the essential qualities that all Lord’s messengers must develop to reflect Christ’s character and to deliver His message effectively. 

In Mark 6:7-13, Jesus sends His disciples out two by two. In part two of “The Disciples’ Commission,” J. Mark explores Jesus’ command for His disciples to live with simplicity and highlights how that same principle applies to us today. He also examines the responsibility Christ gave His disciples and the responsibility we carry as His followers now. 

In this episode, J. Mark teaches from Mark 6:1-6, where Jesus returns to His hometown and is met with rejection. In this example of unbelief, we see the effects of unbelief on those who reject Jesus as Messiah. This episode highlights three effects of unbelief and reveals the danger of an unbelieving heart. It reminds us that when doubt arises, we are not called to reject Jesus, but to bring our doubts to Him so He can bring clarity and truth.