[Jesus] entered the synagogue on the Sabbath and began to teach. They were astonished at his teaching. —Mark 1:21–22
If you’ve ever led a small group or taught a Bible study, you know there’s more behind the words in Mark 1 than what’s on the surface.
You don’t just get up and teach God’s Word with power and effectiveness apart from a lot of preparation—not just preparation of the material but preparation of your heart and life.
So, when I read that Jesus began this day by teaching in the synagogue, I know this wasn’t a casual effort. The people listened attentively because unlike the preachers they were accustomed to, Jesus spoke with authority and power. We know that for this to be possible, He had spent concentrated time with His heavenly Father in preparation. As He ministered, He was being expended on behalf of others.
Paul said, “I will most gladly spend and be spent for you” (2 Cor. 12:15). That’s part of what is involved in ministering to others, whether in a synagogue, a Bible study, or a house full of little ones.
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A Place of Quiet Rest: Finding Intimacy with God through a Daily Devotional Life ©2000 Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Scripture taken from The CSB
Make it Personal
How does spending time with the Lord help to prepare you for whatever He’s calling you to do today?