May we remember the Lord’s example and look to Him in all that we do, following His leading by faith in oneness with Him.

As I studied the scripture we are focusing on today, Mark 7:24-30, I realized I could relate to its message completely for one simple reason: it is about a mother doing whatever it takes to find a cure for her child.

God has given us the Spirit to reside in our hearts, to transform us, and to empower us to honor and glorify the Father.

Let’s pray today, first for ourselves, then for our neighbors; that God would help us be genuine followers of Him, not just followers of routine.

When we don’t understand how God intervenes and shows up in our lives, we are slow to recognize who he is and how he chooses to show up when we are desperate for deliverance. Sometimes, when he does show up, we don’t even recognize him. 

When you read this passage do you read it like I have before—that they were traveling and the rest was coming when they get to the shore? Instead, I think Jesus flips it and the boat ride is the rest, the rest that will get them ready for the miracle! 

Just like this is a hard story, I want to speak some hard truth to you today. But it comes from a place of love. Just like I believe God loves you exactly where you are and for who you are, I also believe He loves you too much to leave you there. 

It's important to note that there is a unique dynamic that takes place between God's power and our belief. That's where the miracle is!

After a little searching the disciples found five loaves and two fish. Jesus took what they brought, held it to heaven blessed it, and created a meal for everyone present and literally had leftovers. Jesus put his foot in that meal. For he is the one that provides, he is the one calls us to a place of reconnecting, rest, and to enjoy what he provides.

Having faith may often seem like we have to blindly follow. However, it’s not that we just have to mindlessly trust, but instead we need to ensure that we are shifting our focus in the right direction. Rather than looking at the hopeless situation, listening to the lies, or believing what the world says, we must fix our eyes on Jesus - the One who is trustworthy and faithful.