How can we apply Jesus' example in Mark 5:21 to our daily interactions? The setting “When Jesus had again crossed by boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around Him beside the sea.” (Mark 5:21) What Jesus quietly models in this single verse • Intentional movement toward people • Readiness to serve whomever comes • Calm acceptance of interruption • Physical presence in a public place, not hidden away • Confidence that the Father will supply strength for the next need Living out those same qualities today • Move toward people on purpose – Choose the lunch table no one else chooses – Walk across the office to greet a coworker rather than sending a quick text • Stay interruptible – Silence notifications only when necessary, but keep your heart open to someone who knocks or calls – Remember Proverbs 3:28: “Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back tomorrow and I will provide,’ when you already have the means.” • Be visibly available – Join neighborhood events instead of retreating behind closed doors – Attend church gatherings early or linger afterward so others can approach you • Serve whoever is in front of you, not just the convenient or familiar – Romans 15:2: “Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” – James 2:1–4 warns against favoritism; greet the stranger as warmly as the friend • Lean on God for strength rather than personal margin – Isaiah 40:31: “But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength.” – Practical step: pause briefly and say, “Lord, Your strength, not mine,” before engaging Why this matters • People sense Christ’s love when we show up—literally • Availability often precedes the miracle God wants to work through us • A lifestyle of presence counters the isolation and hurry of modern culture • Every interaction becomes a platform for the gospel (2 Corinthians 5:20) Quick self-check list □ Did I deliberately move toward at least one person today? □ Was I willing to be interrupted without irritation? □ Did I make myself physically or emotionally accessible? □ Did I rely on God’s strength rather than my own schedule? □ Did someone experience Christ’s kindness through me? |
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