Devotional 2-12-08

Please read Mark 1:14-28

This lectionary reading describes the beginning of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. In verse 17, Jesus calls out to Simon and Andrew who forsake their profession to become “fishers of men”. Verse 19 describes the call of James and John who leave the nets that they have been repairing to follow Jesus. Both are famous and familiar passages from the Bible. They detail the immediate and unequivocal response of men to the call of Jesus.

Verses 23 through 27 tell a different story of a man found in the synagogue with an unclean spirit. This time Jesus does not call out to the man to follow him. Instead, the spirit speaks to Jesus calling him by name. Jesus then rebukes the spirit and orders it to leave the man. Again, the spirit responds to Jesus’ call and departs, from the man.

At first reading, the two stories did not appear to me to have much in common. However, after giving it some thought (beyond my initial “exorcist” connection), I discovered the common thread in all three stories. Each of the characters recognized and responded to the call of Jesus. Even the unclean spirit recognized the power of Jesus and left the man at his command.

How clearly do we hear the call of Jesus in our present day lives, and if we hear that call, how quickly do we respond? Would any of us forsake our profession to follow Jesus?

The Nineteenth Century hymn, “Jesus Calls Us” summarizes the answer:

Jesus calls us o’er the tumult of our life’s wild restless sea;
Day by day his sweet voice soundeth, saying “Christian, follow me!”

Jesus calls us! By our mercies, Savior, may we hear thy call, give our hearts to thine obedience, serve and love the best of all.

Lee Oxley