Click this link to hear an audio version of the below text narrated by SOTH member Jerry Rhinehart:
Mark 1:29-39 (NIV)
Jesus Heals Many
29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them. 32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door, 34 and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.
Jesus Prays in a Solitary Place
35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!” 38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” 39 So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.
How do you see Jesus exert his authority in this story?
How does this play out today?
Powerful, and compassionate Jesus, You taught and healed with divine authority. You did not turn people away, but healed all that were brought to You and cast out many devils. You not only cured Simon’s mother-in-law of her fever but at the same time strengthened her so that she was able to serve You. People continue to come to You today with physical, emotional and mental ills. Lord release us from our sickness, heal us from our pain, forgive us from our sins and make us fit for action that we may serve in Your name. You refueled Your own strength by praying in a solitary place. Help us to prioritize solitary time in prayer to refuel Your Spirit in us, to remain in healthy communion with You, and to go about doing good by blessing those in need. Amen