January 30 | Mark 10:42-45

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DAILY READING

Mark 10:42-45

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REFLECTION

Mark the Evangelist

(Blessed are the Peacemakers)

By Diane Ward

Reflection

Completing a year-long contract in a contentious angry workplace I declined the offer.

Years forward I see a battle ground raging in major cities where civil law is responsible for bringing about peace. It is not always possible to be among peace-loving people and not easy to be a peacemaker in an antagonistic environment. True leadership is not about power or status. Harmony and peace come about through relationship with God. True greatness is about serving others. There was no guile or deceit in Jesus. (John 1:47)

Followers of Christ are to reflect Jesus’ humility, to demonstrate the peace of God. To that end they renounce violence and tumult and establish the peace of God amid a world of war and hate. Mark fulfilled during his life what every Christian follower is to do; proclaim to all people the Good News, the source of our salvation. We know the fruit of Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22)

The fight against the powers in the heavenlies continues. The Word says Kings and kingdoms will fall and pass away but the Lord will reign forever sovereign. (Daniel 2:44)

PRAYER

Lord, as I see my country in turmoil I lean on Your Word. My soul is in Your hands.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DIANE WARD

I love to research and learn something new I hadn’t considered. From 2015 through present, I continue to write on fifth Fridays. Bless us all who write and share the Word of God! We never know who might find peace and grace along the way, including us!