Free Indeed
(Mark 7:24-37)
From the beginning of His earthly ministry, Jesus made His mission clear. In Luke 4:18-19, He reads from Isaiah 61, declaring that He has been anointed to preach the gospel to the poor, proclaim release to the captives, recover sight to the blind, and set the oppressed free. This foundational statement sets the stage for everything Jesus would do.
Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently demonstrated His mission by healing the sick, casting out demons, and teaching about the Kingdom of God. In Mark 7, we see specific examples of how Jesus sets people free from various forms of bondage.
In Mark 7:24-30, we encounter a Gentile woman whose daughter is possessed by an unclean spirit. Despite being considered an outsider and unworthy by Jewish standards, she approaches Jesus with humility and faith, seeking healing for her daughter.
Initially, Jesus responds by highlighting His primary mission is to the Jews. However, the woman's persistent faith and humility move Jesus to grant her request. Her daughter is healed, demonstrating that Jesus' ministry extends beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries.
In Mark 7:31-37, Jesus travels to the Decapolis, a Gentile region, where He encounters a man who is deaf and has a speech impediment. The community brings the man to Jesus, seeking healing on his behalf.
Jesus performs a unique healing ritual, placing His fingers in the man's ears and touching his tongue with His spit. This act signifies that even Jesus' bodily fluids can heal and cleanse. The man's ears are opened, and his tongue is loosed, allowing him to hear and speak clearly.
Jesus' ministry displays His love and power to set captives free. He loosens everything that we are bound to. If the Son has set us free, we are free indeed (John 8:36). May we experience the fullness of His freedom and share it with those around us.
Jesus' ministry challenges us to examine our own lives and the lives of those around us. Here are some practical steps and questions to consider this week:
1. Identify Areas of Bondage: Reflect on areas where you feel oppressed or captive. Are there sins, fears, or societal pressures holding you back?
2. Approach Jesus with Faith and Humility: Like the Gentile woman, come to Jesus with a humble heart, acknowledging your need for His intervention.
3. Intercede for Others: Think of someone who needs Jesus' healing touch. How can you bring them to Jesus through prayer and support?
4. Embrace Inclusivity: Are there people you have overlooked or deemed unworthy of Jesus' love? How can you extend His grace to them?
Peace be with you!
Pastor Bruce
