We Are All About God’s Grace for God’s People

THIS WEEK AT CHRIST THE KING LUTHERAN CHURCH

Mark 4:41 – “Who then is this that even the wind and the sea obey him?”

Who then is this?

AThe ways in which Mark’s gospel reports Jesus and his ministry are absolutely stunning. Mark’s gospel may be the shortest gospel in length, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in vividness. This week’s reading is no exception. Jesus, no doubt tired and exhausted from ministry, is sleeping on a boat, on the stern of the boat, on a cushion which is on the stern of the boat, the very same boat which is treading water, while the wind and waves roar as a “great storm” (Mark 4:37) around him. Very vivid. An eyewitness account we can assume! Then, in a miraculous moment which witnesses to Jesus having the authority of God, Jesus calms the sea and wind with his words. That’s it. Just his words. He speaks and the chaos of creation stops. As Psalm 77:16 puts it – “When the waters saw you, O God, when the waters saw you, they were afraid; the very deep trembled.” How the disciples respond to Jesus after this miracle is telling: “They were filled with great awe…” (Mark 4:41)

Who then is this Jesus? Throughout Mark’s gospel we are led, by the hand as it were, to important moments in Jesus’ Galilean ministry so that you, the reader and listener of the gospel, can answer for yourself who this Jesus fellow is. No one can be indifferent to Jesus because, as Jesus himself says elsewhere (Mark 9:40): “Whoever is not against us is for us.” Who then is this Jesus? Is Jesus who he says he is? Or are you still doubtful about him? The disciples, we must remember, get called out time and time again for their lack of faith. And they were with Jesus every day for about 3 years! The same Jesus who casts out demons, who teaches with authority, who heals the sick and diseased, who calms the raging storm on the Sea of Galilee is the same Jesus who will give himself, his very life, as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Who then is this Jesus? That is the question we all must answer and Mark’s gospel vividly helps us to see, know, love, obey, and follow him.

Yours in Christ,
Pastor Chris

What’s On This Week

Monday, June 18th
7 PM Executive Committee
Wednesday, June 20th
9:30 AM Bible Study – John 10:1-21
Thursday, June 21st
10 AM Coffee Clutch
6:15 PM Church Council
Saturday, June 23rd
5 PM Worship w/ Holy Communion
Sunday , June 24th – 5th Sunday after Pentecost
9:30 AM Coffee Fellowship Time (Library)
10:30 AM Worship w/ Holy Communion
***Houston Mission Trip Blessing today****