Just a Few Words

Scripture – Mark 2:1-5 ¹A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. ²So many gathered that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. ³Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. ⁴Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. ⁵When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

Reflection: When word got out that Jesus had returned to Capernaum, people again came crowding around. As they came, Jesus “preached the word to them.” I think it’s a safe presumption that some healing was also going on. At the same time, though, He had words for the people, as well.

Sometimes good behavior is not enough of a witness. I think it’s crucial that I live in a way that’s consistent with my faith in Christ. At the same time, words are sometimes necessary. I don’t need a lot of words – just a few to touch on the reason for my behavior. I’ll keep in mind that preaching was always part of Jesus’ ministry on earth.

Lord, give me the right words to speak when it’s appropriate. In all I do and say, teach me to proclaim your word for all people. And please, keep working on my behavior. Give me the new attitudes to act like your follower in ever more consistent ways.