God-given Opportunities – Mark 6 Cont…
In Mark 6, we see several pivotal opportunities presented to various people — opportunities that reflect those to us, calling for our response to Jesus, His mission, and the faith.
First, there is the opportunity to know Jesus. Just as His hometown of Nazareth had the chance to welcome Him, we too are invited to open our hearts to Him. Will we welcome Jesus into our lives, or will we, like those in Nazareth, allow familiarity or doubt to keep us distant?
Next, we have the opportunity for mission. Jesus calls each of us to be part of His work in the world. Recognising that call and embracing it with joy is a gift. It’s not just something we have to do; it’s something we get to do. Are you ready to step into the mission God has for you?
We also have the opportunity to repent. Herod had moments where he could have turned from his sin, but he chose not to. We are given that same chance today. Will we let pride and stubbornness hold us back, or will we repent and turn to Jesus, embracing the change He offers?
Mark 6:30-44 highlights the opportunity for compassion. When the disciples urged Jesus to send the hungry crowd away, He instead responded with compassion. Even though they had limited resources, Jesus took what they had and multiplied it, feeding over 5,000 people. Compassion isn’t just a feeling; it’s an action. Are we willing to see people through Jesus’ eyes, love them with His heart, and trust Him with what we have?
In Mark 6:45-52, the disciples face a storm that becomes an opportunity to grow in faith. Jesus sends them ahead in a boat, knowing they’ll face a storm. But He also knows they need to learn to trust Him more deeply. Sometimes, our greatest fears are the very things Jesus uses to draw us closer to Him. Will we see the storms in our lives as opportunities to grow in faith?
Finally, Mark 6:53-56 presents an opportunity to receive help from the Lord. The people recognised Jesus and sought Him out, knowing He could heal and help them. But not everyone who seeks Jesus is truly His disciple. Each day, we have the chance to seek the Lord’s help with a heart of faith and obedience. Will we respond as true disciples, or will we turn away when things don’t go as we expect?
These opportunities are before us today. The question is, how will we respond?