How can we apply Jesus' attentive approach in Mark 9:21 to our ministry? The Scene in Mark 9:21 “Jesus asked the boy’s father, ‘How long has this been with him?’ The father replied, ‘From childhood.’ ” Jesus pauses amid a chaotic crowd, locks eyes with one distraught parent, and invites a story. Before commanding, healing, or teaching the multitude, He listens. What We Learn from Jesus’ Attentiveness • He valued the individual above the spectacle. • He gathered specific details before acting. • His question drew out faith (v. 24) and set the stage for deliverance (v. 25). • By slowing down, He modeled the Father’s compassionate heart (Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 57:15). Ministry Principles We Can Embrace • Personal over program: people are never interruptions (Mark 10:14). • Listening precedes solution: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak” (James 1:19). • Empathy opens hearts: “We do not have a high priest unable to sympathize” (Hebrews 4:15). • Faith grows when stories are honored: testimonies invite belief (Revelation 12:11). Practical Ways to Imitate Jesus’ Approach • Schedule margin: leave space in meetings and services for individual stories. • Ask intentional questions: – “How long has this weighed on you?” – “What has the Lord shown you in this season?” • Active listening cues: eye contact, gentle tone, no rushing, affirming nods. • Record and remember: keep confidential notes so follow-up feels personal (Philippians 1:3). • Train teams: model attentive listening in volunteer orientations and small-group leader meetings. • Pray after listening, not before: let the person’s words shape intercession (Colossians 1:9-10). • Celebrate small steps: share short testimonies (with permission) to encourage the body (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Fruit We Can Expect • Deeper trust between shepherds and flock (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Clearer discernment of root issues, leading to targeted ministry (Proverbs 20:5). • Heightened faith as people feel seen and heard, preparing them to receive breakthrough (Mark 9:24-25). • A congregation that mirrors Christ’s compassion to the watching world (John 13:35). |
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