January 19

Introduction

Mark 9:2–29: Jesus takes three disciples with him up to a high mountain where he is briefly changed and revealed as a divine figure, an event called the transfiguration. The disciples see him talking with Moses the lawgiver and Elijah the prophet. When they descend from the mountain and rejoin the other disciples, they are met by a crowd and a man whose son is possessed by an evil spirit.

Today’s Key Verse: Mark 9:23b

[Jesus said]: “Everything is possible for the person who has faith.”

Reflect

After Peter, James, and John witness Jesus’s transfiguration, why does Jesus instruct them not to tell anyone what they saw? What don’t the disciples understand? After healing the boy with an evil spirit, what teaching does Jesus give about faith? With regard to healing, what are your thoughts about the role of faith?

Pray

Lord Jesus, in faith I trust in you. Teach me to listen for your voice and increase my faith day by day as I grow in knowledge of you. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Mark 9:30–50: Jesus speaks again about his death, and the disciples argue as to who among them is the greatest.