Thursday, December 14, 2023

Mark 14:12-16

Mark 14:12-16

  There were so many things that Jesus could've been doing that final week of his life.  His ministry had three years of momentum and thousands of people would press in on him every time he went to speak.  He could've sought to maximize public speaking and teaching opportunities, or to perform as many miracles as possible.  And he likely did some of those -- but what we learn throughout the Gospels is that Jesus opted to prioritize spending time with his friends, sharing a meal with them.  They didn't know what was about to happen, despite him telling them about it time and time again, but looking back on it, it must have been remarkable to have spent his final hours in such company.
  May we choose relationships as well.  There are so many pressures in life, and it often feels like there are so many things to get done.  May we pause and choose to spend time with those who are around us.  We don't know what the future holds -- so let us enjoy a feast, even a modest one, in the company of friends and family, giving thanks for such opportunities.
  And may we rejoice that God wants to spend time with us in such a way.  God comes to us as a Savior, but also as a friend, to be known and to know us.  We find God in breaking bread, in a common meal, for God wants to be found by us.

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