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Hope Springs Forth
Throughout the year, we have continued to celebrate the 90th anniversary of The Upper Room daily Read More
Cristina Dinoto | Read Mark 9:30-32
The disciples were hearing from Jesus things that they would never have wanted to hear. I too would have felt sadness, worry, and fear if I had been there.
The disciples’ fear silences them. We can speculate on what they were afraid of: Were they afraid their questions would anger...
Dear Lord, I want to live following your steps. Thank you that in your paths I came to know laughter and tears, but also comfort and sharing in your infinite grace. May I continue to live by your side until the end of my days. Amen.
Proverbs describes the noble wife and sets a standard that can seem impossible. This woman is capable and respected and also generous and wise. She serves but is not weak. Is she a “superwoman,” and do all women need to be “superwomen”? No, she is noble because she follows the counsel of the psalmist and is deeply rooted in the teachings of God. Therefore, she represents a standard for everyone to emulate, not just women. James, another teacher of wisdom, encourages believers to show these same characteristics by following the wisdom given by God. In Mark’s Gospel, the disciples display a lack of wisdom by arguing over who is the greatest. Jesus reminds them that greatness in God’s eyes comes through service, not through seeking recognition.
Read Proverbs 31:10-31. How have societal expectations shaped your life? How do you allow them to shape the ways you interact with others?
Read Psalm 1. What fruit are you yielding in this season?
Read James 3:13–4:3, 7-8a. In what ways does your life reflect “gentleness born of wisdom”? How are you gentle with yourself and with others?
Read Mark 9:30-37. How do you seek to serve others in your daily life?
Respond by posting a prayer.
