Jonathan Moore
Mark 1:40-42
A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. “If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” he said. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!” Instantly the leprosy disappeared, and the man was healed.
With just a few words, the man was healed. Verification and certification of that healing in those days, was quite involved (see Leviticus 14). Even though Jesus challenged him to go to the priests and follow the process, the man instead chose to proclaim his healing (Mark 1:45). The result was somewhat chaotic - kind of like Jesus-mania. It's not always the miracle itself. Our response or reaction to it can engender various repercussions. We want God to move but how we move or act in response to God also matters!
Prayer from First Presbyterian Church Grenada Heavenly Father, we know that wind, water, rain , sleet and snow àre yours. This Sabbath we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your protection and grace.
We pray you will place Your mighty hand over this storm and calm its force. Shield us from the fury of the wind, rain, snow and ice. Care for those in the grip of the storm and keep them from harm. We pray for the safety of every person, home, and community at risk. We lift up all rescue workers, police, firefighters, and utility crews, asking for clear minds, steady hands, and safe passage as they heroically assist others in dangerous situations. Calm the anxious thoughts and steady the restless hearts of those filled with fear. Remind them of Your constant presence, that even when life seems dark and stormy, You are with us, guiding us to safety. In the wake of the storm, we pray for swift recovery and restoration. Provide essentials like water, food, and adequate shelter, and inspire communities to come together in support and care for one another.
We trust in Your unfailing love and mercy, knowing You are our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. We pray in Jesus Name. Amen
🕯️ Parable — The Lantern in the Fog A traveler walked a familiar path when a thick fog rolled in. He could barely see a few steps ahead and fear began to rise. He thought about turning back, but then he noticed a small lantern hanging from a post. Its light didn’t cut through the whole fog — just enough to show the next few steps. So he walked to the edge of the lantern’s glow. When he reached it, he found another lantern. And then another. Step by step, the path revealed itself, even though he never saw the whole way at once.
✨ The lesson: God rarely shows us the entire road. But He always gives enough light for the next step.