January 11

Introduction

Mark 2:1–17: Jesus heals a paralyzed man, and teachers of the Law accuse him of blasphemy. Jesus calls a tax collector to be one of his followers.

Today’s Key Verse: Mark 2:17

[Jesus answered]: “People who are well do not need a doctor, but only those who are sick. I have not come to call respectable people, but outcasts.”

Reflect

What prompted four people to bring the paralyzed man to Jesus? What does this story teach you about faith? Why did the teachers of the Law accuse Jesus of blasphemy? What did Jesus say to them? Why did they object to Jesus eating with tax collectors and outcasts? What was Jesus’s response? How do you suppose they reacted to Jesus’s words? In what ways does your community of faith reach out to those who are considered “outcasts” today?

Pray

Lord Jesus, you reach out in love to everyone, especially those cast out by society. Thank you for reaching out to me and welcoming me into your Kingdom. Teach me to reach out with compassion and love to those who have been ostracized and to share with them the Good News of your love and salvation. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Mark 2:18–28: Jesus is questioned about fasting and about the Sabbath.