40Flex Journey | Day 15

Be opened.

"The new reality He brings should always challenge our current way of living."

Big one today! I couldn’t help myself. 😬

Jesus sends out His twelve disciples. He deputised them. ⭐️ Through Jesus's instruction and authority they were able to cast out demons and heal the sick. They did this with olive oil! Really. Read. We have like a gallon of that at home. Evil spirits watch out!

Jesus then has a lengthy discussion about washing of hands. He tells the religious elite that we should definitely wash our hands, but that's not all that matters. There is more at stake than outer cleanliness.

More indeed, because even after healing many, casting out demons, and miracles upon miracles, Jesus still had to ask His followers: don't you get it yet?

Let’s Read

Mark Chapters 6, 7 and 8 →

Now Think About This

They were deeply offended and refused to believe in him. (Mark 6.3)

Jesus is offensive. 😲 Not just then. Even today. His message always confounds the audience and divides opinion. That’s the nature of truth–it challenges us; calls us to take a side. Let’s not forget that.

Yes, Jesus loves us. However, the new reality He brings should always challenge our current way of living.

Deep breath. Let’s listen. 🎧 Then keep reading. There’s more...

The Journey

He told them to take nothing for their journey except a walking stick—no food, no traveler’s bag, no money. He allowed them to wear sandals but not to take a change of clothes. (Mark 6.8-9) ✈️

Really, Jesus? That’s all I need to take for the journey: Your authority and a walking stick! (I’d pick the biggest and baddest walking stick. Just saying.) Mosquito repellant, no? Are traveller’s cheques a thing?

I imagine the twelve disciples, beating their chests, sticks in the air. Shouting: This is Sparta!

He has done everything well. (Mark 7.37)

Looking back at your life. Looking through all your history. Can you truly say that He has done all things well? Can you find it in your heart to settle on the truth of His love? I'm praying for you that you are able to say: YES!

“Who do people say I am?” (Mark 8.27)

Jesus wasn't looking for a poll-result. He was leading His followers to a moment of revelation. But who do YOU say I am? Peter answered: You are the Messiah. (Mark 8.29). If Jesus asked you that question today—honestly—what would your answer be?

The Challenge

Big Steps Forward

01.
Examine Belief

Reflect on how Jesus' message challenges your current way of life and identify one area to align with His truth.

02.
Trust Provision

Inspired by the disciples' simple journey, identify one area where you can rely more on God’s authority than material security.

03.
Acknowledge Healer

Identify one aspect of your history where you see God’s goodness and offer a prayer of gratitude for His faithfulness.