MARK

MARK: The ox; the servant; the gospel of work and activity, no genealogy.


It is a characteristic of Mark's Gospel that where Matthew is full in his description, Mark is concise. Matthew records parables and teachings; Mark deals mainly with activity and actions. His record has no genealogy, for "servants" are not considered in that regard. Instead, words such as "straightway," "immediately" are used consistently as though the Great Servant is on constant duty, wholeheartedly performing the divine Will.

As the Servant of Yahweh, he taught with authority (Mark 1:22), authenticated his teaching with miracle (vv. 23-28), healed those of Peter's house (vv. 30-31), attended to the people of the city who gathered to him (vv. 32-34).

We can only wonder at the tenacity of the Lord's dedication as he continued in his work, despite the weariness and exhaustion indicated by v. 35. He needed some moments of quietude and solitude, so that this lonely Son of God could spend time with his heavenly Father, finding renewed strength to continue the heavy burden of his work.

But he was not permitted this for long, as the thoughtless disciples and multitude sought him out. Frequently he sought such a refuge (vv. 12-13). There is a great example, however, in his "rising early in the morning."

He knew the value of the morning hours. He rose while the world was still. He saw when the light spread abroad from the east, and with fresh tokens of his Father's presence. He joined with all creation in praising the evident presence of God.

Let us, too, think of God before the world gets possession of our thoughts as each day progresses. - GEM

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