Mark 16; Psalm 2:11-12

In the final chapter of Mark, Jesus first appears to Mary Magdalene, then to two disciples, and finally to the rest of the disciples, who initially did not believe that Jesus had appeared to the others first.

Mark 15:43

In this verse, Mark shows us how people who were not even followers of Christ, who had an upper position in society in Jesus' time, "gathered up the courage" to do what was right. This man was Joseph of Arimathea. It says in Mark 15 that he "was waiting for the kingdom of God." So we see that he saw God in Jesus.

Mark 14; Matthew 6:1-3; Acts 20:35

Mark 13; 1 Peter 3:15

In this chapter, Jesus shares with his disciples about the time of the great tribulation and the things that will occur. Many things will happen, but he said in verse 7, "Do not be frightened." Jesus does not know the day or the hour of this tribulation. Only the Father knows but desires us to be alert (35). The gospel must be preached to all nations (10) before his coming and the tribulation. So, we must be ready to give an answer and reason for our faith when asked (1 Peter 3:15).

Mark 12:28-24; Deuteronomy 6:4-5

Mark 11:12-13, 20-26; 2 Timothy 4:2; Matthew 7:19-23; 1 Corithians 3:12-15.

Remember this: Jesus cursed a leafy fig tree that had no fruit, even though it was not the season for fig trees. Jesus expected fruit from the tree. Therefore, be cautious about who you choose to follow. Some people may appear kind and gentle, but they are actually deceitful and may lead us astray with their persuasive words and outwardly impressive personalities. Not everyone who claims to be a Christian truly lives according to Christian values consistently. Let's follow Jesus and bear fruit that genuinely represents Him, as He will evaluate our actions and their results. Jesus wants us to be discerning about who we listen to and follow. We should evaluate whether what they say aligns with the teachings of the scriptures and helps us live our lives better for a more fruitful outcome.

Mark 10; Genesis 2:24; Psalm 127:3

In this chapter, Jesus teaches about the importance of marriage and the sacredness of children, saying "God made them male and female. The union of this gender creates a gift, and that is a child because children are a gift from God" (Psalm 127:3). Jesus also emphasizes the need to approach the kingdom of heaven with the innocence and wonder of a child. He then encounters a rich young man who is focused on worldly possessions rather than spiritual matters, and instructs him on the true path to inheriting the kingdom. Jesus reminds us to internalize these teachings and apply them to our lives in order to receive the blessings of heaven.

Mark 9

In this chapter, Jesus experiences transfiguration, where I believe he is in the presence of God with Moses and Elijah. Then, Jesus casts out a mute and deaf spirit from a boy because the disciples were unable to do so. The boy's father, having some faith, referred to Jesus as Teacher, but it was not enough. Jesus told him, "All things are possible to him who believes" (verse 23). The boy's father asked Jesus to "help his unbelief" (verse 24), and Jesus did help his son. The disciples needed to pray and, in some cases, fast to cast out this demon. Fasting and praying bring us closer to God, and He nourishes our soul and spirit, renewing our strength.

So, today, I suggest praying and fasting to allow for miracles to happen for all who accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior and have the Holy Spirit within them. The Holy Spirit, who resurrected Jesus from death, is a part of God within us.

Mark 8; Psalm 122:6; John 4:22

Mark 7

In this chapter, Jesus presents to the Pharisees and the scribes the rituals and traditions of man that defile a man. No unwashed hands can defile, but what you say with your mouth defiles you.

We are called to prioritize God's commandments and instructions over men's traditions. By obeying traditions, we honor man first before God. We must be vigilant to identify what dishonors God in our lives, repent, and strive to obey God's written word first, above all else. This is not a choice to be taken lightly, but a decision that shapes our spiritual journey.

Traditions such as Easter and Christmas are good traditions because they bring remembrance of God into our hearts. Still, when we give a gift, for example, on Christmas without love, just because they gave you something, you offer something that does not honor God. First, we must confess any sin creating a grudge against that person and love them without reproach.

Today, I urge you to live a clean life, free from anything that hinders you from obeying God's word first, above men's traditions. Remember the new covenant: love God first and then man and things, words or feelings will not come out of your body to defile you. Living a clean life, in obedience to God's word, is a powerful testimony of your faith and commitment.