January 21

Introduction

Mark 10:13–34: Children are brought to Jesus and are blessed by him. An encounter with a rich man provides Jesus with an opportunity to teach his followers about the cost of discipleship. The reading concludes with Jesus speaking about his death for the third time.

Today’s Key Verse: Mark 10:15

[Jesus said]: “I assure you that whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.”

Reflect

Why did the disciples seek to prevent the people from bringing the children to Jesus? How did Jesus respond? Jesus speaks of receiving the Kingdom of God like a child (verse 15). What does this mean to you? What did Jesus say to the rich man (verse 21)? How did the rich man respond (verse 22)? What does verse 27 teach you about God? Today’s reading includes a proverb (verse 31) that appears in other places (Matthew 19:30, 20:16; Luke 13:30) and points back to Mark 9:35 (see yesterday’s reading) and Jesus’s teaching on being “the servant of all.” What is your understanding of verse 31?

Pray

Loving God, grant me a childlike faith, totally trusting in you. I yield my life to you. May your kingdom come, Lord. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Mark 10:35–52: Two disciples approach Jesus with a request, and Jesus heals a blind man.