Returned from another business trip where I’m on the go from early until late. Still pondering Mark’s gospel, though.
There are two endings to the gospel. It appears that some in the community long ago added another ending–perhaps because what appears to be the original ending seemed to stop short. No one can know for certain today. But both endings have a similar conclusion. Jesus went with the disciples as they spread the gospel of God’s salvation.
Sunday, our pastor challenged us (based upon the three stories in Luke 15) to find the lost. Remember the three stories? The lost sheep, the lost coin, the lost son. While he was talking, I was thinking–how do you approach those who have been in the church then left in bitterness because of something someone said or did years ago? It’s hard. I’ve had those conversations. You don’t just sweep in and drop a few words of wisdom and solve all the problems.
Then I read the conclusions of Mark again and it dawned upon me. You don’t approach situations just within your own emotions and intellect. You step back momentarily and find that Jesus is with you (you could say the Spirit or God–all the same). Then you use the added help that you now have because you are with Jesus. He’s helping you do the work.
Those early Christ followers really felt Jesus’ presence. How long since you have? What better things could you do if you realized that he’s walking with you?
Faith Venture 
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