Looking for Jesus

October 4, 2009

Background Scripture: Mark 1:21 – 45
Lesson Passage: Mark 1:32 – 45

When they found him, they said, “Everyone is looking for you.” (Mark 1:37 (NLT)) This can be a powerful statement when made in the right context. Unfortunately, then as it is now, the context makes all of the difference. It is indeed desirable for everyone to seek Jesus. But the simple question must be asked concerning their seeking, “Why?” In our lesson today, people from throughout Galilee was hearing about the teachings and miracles of Jesus and searching diligently for him. Their searching, however, was based on their desires that they fully believed that Jesus could fulfill. They sought him for healing, cleansing, and restoration. Perhaps, others did not seek him for personal gain other than to be observers. Some people just like to say, I was there when. They just like to be observers so they can tell others about what they have seen. Jesus was not hiding from them although it could be said he was avoiding them. He needed some time away from the crowd for prayer. Personal devotion was important to Jesus as is made clear in the gospel accounts. So he got up when many were yet sleeping and went out to a solitary place for prayer. His disciples seem to question why he would separate himself from the people that were now coming in droves. Maybe they saw this as an opportunity for Jesus to enjoy the fame and notoriety as others would have. Jesus’ response was a reminder of his mission. He was now ready to move on to other towns in the area and preach to them. He saw the word of God as more important than miracles. He saw the word of God as more important than deliverance from physical bondage or disease. Jesus was intent on proclaiming the good news to those who had not received it. All of this is stated after he got off to himself for a while and prayed. If Jesus wanted a crowd, he already had one and was leaving it to go to those who had not met him or heard the gospel preached. He was leaving those that were looking for him and going to those who were not out physically looking. But as he went, they still came seeking deliverance, healing, and to be taught the word of God. Not only was his teaching different than the scribes, but his interaction with those that came showed that he was different. He didn’t just heal the leper; before he healed him he first touched him with his hand. How long had it been since this man had felt the warmth and caring touch from another human being? How long had it been since he was allowed to approach another person and have a civil conversation about his personal need? Jesus didn’t just dole out healings like one would medicine. He showed a sincere interest in the person who had the need. He showed interest in them as a person and fellow human being. And this was done to the worst of the social outcasts. If he would be kind, loving, and respectful to a leper, then who would not seek him? Jesus prescribed the protocol that was established long ago in the Law for admitting the leper back into Jewish society. He also admonished him to not tell anyone except the priest about what had happened. This leper was not the person to share a secret with. The bible says that this leper went out and published and blazed the news everywhere so that Jesus’ reputation preceded him and he could not go to the places he had intentions to teach in. After the leper’s testimony, even more came looking for Jesus.

Robert C. Hudson
September 21, 2009

Nehemiah: Motivator for the People

September 27, 2009

Background Scripture: Nehemiah 2
Lesson Passage: Nehemiah 2:5, 11 – 20

What is it that makes one a motivator? What does it take to be persuasive? There are lecturers and seminar leaders that claim that they can transform anyone into a persuasive person with the power to motivate others. Is this true or what about what others have said that some are born with the gift? I believe we have an opportunity to address these questions by examining the actions of Nehemiah in today’s lesson.

Nehemiah was burdened with what he believed to be a disgraceful situation for the Jewish people. He had heard that the wall that surrounded Jerusalem was destroyed and the gates torn down. This left the Jewish citizens there exposed to criminal mischief by outsiders—especially during the night. Nehemiah, on the other hand, was an exile in a foreign land. He served in the capacity of being the king’s cup bearer. His closeness to the king, however, didn’t qualify him for any favors from the king since he was there as a servant. Yet, the king still had the authority and the resources to help remedy the problem of Nehemiah’s ancestors. The weight of his burden apparently showed on his face for the king noticed that Nehemiah was somewhat out of character. Nehemiah prayed before he spoke to the king concerning the matter and God moved the king’s heart in Nehemiah’s favor. Now that Nehemiah had favor with the king, he could avail himself of the king’s authority and resources. Nehemiah requested everything he needed that the king could provide to make his work successful. This was the beginning of Nehemiah working from under his burden. The king granted him leave from his duties and letters of passage and authority to retrieve materials to aid in the construction work required. After arriving in Jerusalem, Nehemiah did a personal inspection of the wall and the gates so that he could make his own assessment of the situation rather than proceed based on what he had previously heard. Now Nehemiah was prepared to engage the Jewish people concerning the task of restoring the wall and gates of the city. This problem had persisted for a while yet some Jews lived there and accepted the conditions in which they lived. Nehemiah would need to stir them up to want to make improvement and not settle for the present condition. Nehemiah pointed out that the situation was an issue of national shame for Israel. This placed the burden of action on the shoulders of all Jews and not just a few who showed more concern than others. Nehemiah provided encouragement to his Jewish brethren by testifying of God’s help to him thus far. This appeared to be enough for the people to be inspired to follow Nehemiah’s leadership. This was the beginning of the process of restoration of the wall but it would take continuous encouragement in the face of opposition and ridicule. Success would require that Nehemiah do more than provide a spark to get the fire going. Nehemiah had to be a motivator for the people.

Robert C. Hudson
September 10, 2009