Momentum For Monday, February 13th 2023

"So He said to them, "How is it you do not understand?'' (Mark 8:21)

Recently, I came across some information that I find absolutely fascinating. The Gospel of Mark is mostly known for focusing his writings on the adult life and ministry of Christ. However, Mark also records several failures on that of the disciples. In fact, you can find over fifteen references of this throughout Mark.

Nobody knows why he did this. Maybe he was a pessimist. Maybe he was analytical. Honestly, I don't really care why he did it. I'm just glad he did. Why? Because there is comfort in knowing that the very people that spent time with Jesus in the flesh and walked with him physically, still got it wrong.

When Jesus calmed the storm in Mark 4, he rebuked them for little faith. In Mark 7, Jesus asked if they were dull when not understanding a parable. And in chapter 14, during one of the most important parts of the life of Jesus, they fell asleep. See? Thanks to Mark, we can realize that we're in good company.

It's almost comical how people (inside and outside the church) think that because you go to church, you have your junk together. It's the exact opposite really. We need God so badly that church aids in the very help we need. Being a follower of Christ, a disciple, means we're going to get it wrong. This is the very nature of learning though. Failure is part of growth.

If you struggle with failure, maybe take some time and read through Mark. Take note of all the times the disciples failed to get it right, yet Christ still commissioned them to do ministry (Mark 16: 14-18). Hopefully you'll feel a little more confident in being equipped for God to use you to serve others.

"My flesh and my heart fails, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." (Psalm 73:26)