The conclusion to the Gospel according to Mark, or at least one of them. The ending of Mark is so interesting and probably not what you think of when you think about resurrection stories.

As you hear the text, pay attention to how different it is from any of your preconceived notions about the resurrection story. And, pay attention to why Mark would end this story in such a way.

Mark's ending may seem abrupt, but there is an invitation as well...

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There is a sense of finality in today's passage. At least if you were to hear this for the first time. Jesus has died. Now he is buried. There are witnesses to where he has been laid. That seems to be it.

Imagine reading this, rather hearing it read, for the very first time. Having been on an extensive journey with Jesus, and his disciples, it all comes to a dramatic end. The tomb is closed. That is it.

At least for today. I know you know the end of the story. But for today sit with this. Sit with the uncertainty, the finality, as if this were the first time you heard the story. Sit in solidarity with Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses. Sit with this...

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Today's passage is heavy to say the least. From Simon carrying the cross for Jesus, to the crucifixion, and those who observed it.

There is a heaviness that comes with reading this passage. Pay attention to your feelings as you hear it. There are times to deeply investigate the words (some are in Aramaic), but today choose to move beyond the mind and allow the practice of Lectio Divina to ruminate in your soul.

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Today's passage includes some pretty violent imagery. Violence can invoke various responses for people. Pay attention to not only what your think about this text, but also how it makes you feel. Allow your heart to take over as you sit with this text.

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Today's passage moves us from entering into the humanity of Jesus, to the humanity of Peter. As you hear the text, I invite you to examine what feelings are associated with this passage. Move beyond just understanding with your head and engage, and pay attention to, your heart.

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As we draw closer to the crucifixion, the suspense hightens. We continue to be drawn into the humanity of Jesus. As you hear today's passage, may your become more and more aware of the fullness of your humanity. We join our brother, Jesus, in the experience of the human condition.

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Today's passage really highlights the humanity of Jesus. We are invited into his emotions, his struggle, the very essence of what it means to be human. This is a long passage, that covers a lot. Be sure to set aside time to experience the fullness of the text.

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There is a lot going on in today's passage. Due to the length it is only read three times on the podcast, if you need another read of the text take the time to read it and really let it sit in. There is a lot going on here. If you need to take it in pieces, allow yourself the time and flexibility to do so.

Toward the end of this passage is the institution of the Lord's Supper. This Sunday, the majority of United Methodist Churches (and churches in many other denominations) will celebrate Holy Communion in their worship services. Allow today's reading to sit with you. May these words both form your understanding of the Lord's Supper and transform your experience of Holy Communion.

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Today's Halloween edition includes some spooky stuff:

'But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.

How is that for a Halloween lectio divina! Wherever you find yourself today, may you experience God amidst the spooky and the unsure. May you "keep awake" to all that God may teach you this day.

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Today's reading comes from the 13th chapter of Mark. If you are unfamiliar with apocalyptic literature, this may be a really scary passage. There will probably be a lot of confusing passages, words, phrases, ideas.

You will probably also bring a lot of ideas to the passage: things you have read in other books, movies you have seen. Do your best to let the text speak for itself. Read chapter 13 as part of the greater whole of the story of Mark. Let Mark influence Mark.

If you are really struggling to understand this passage, check out a study Bible or a commentary to help you better understand what is going on here.

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