2nd Week in Ordinary Time
He told his disciples to have a boat ready. (Mark 3:9)
Crowds upon crowds followed Jesus, and the more he healed, the more people pressed in on him. So many people surged toward him, in fact, that he had to act to avoid being crushed. But he had a boat ready, not for a quick escape, but so that he could continue to teach and heal.
Just as he did back then, Jesus has a plan today—for your life! He is always ready to teach you, to build you up, to forgive you, or to guide your feet. Nothing takes him by surprise; he is always ready, always prepared for whatever challenges life throws at you.
Jesus’ plan is no “Plan B” or “Plan C” or even “Plan Z.” It’s a perfect plan that will bring you peace, and it begins with you relaxing into God’s presence. Press in to be with Jesus just as the crowds did. He will never retreat beyond your ability to hear him. Maybe that means visiting the Tabernacle, sitting quietly in a comfortable chair, or just taking a deep breath in the middle of a rushed day. Read a psalm or listen to worshipful music to help you quiet your thoughts in his presence. Try to picture Jesus sitting next to you or calling to you from his boat.
Then give him time to speak to you. Pay attention to the thoughts in your mind and the feelings in your heart. Write down anything that occurs to you—pictures that form in your imagination; messages of guidance, assurance, or conviction; or Scripture passages that come to mind. If the message brings you joy or comfort or encouragement, it’s probably Jesus speaking to you. Remember, he has come to save, not to condemn.
Jesus wants to speak to every one of us. This is his Plan A. He wants to teach us about who he is and what it means to follow him. He wants to tell us about his mercy and his salvation. He wants to give us new insights into his love. Especially today, as we begin the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, he wants to tell us how we can be his ambassadors of reconciliation and healing.
“Jesus, I believe you want to speak to me today. Here I am. I’ve come to hear your voice.”
1 Samuel 18:6-9; 19:1-7
Psalm 56:2-3, 9-13
Daily Marriage Tip for January 18, 2018:
“There are different spiritual gifts but the same Spirit.” (1 Cor. 12) Which gift does your beloved have in a special way: wisdom, faith, the ability to heal, industriousness, intuition, decision making skills, communication? Affirm him or her.