My family’s Vietnamese mission work started by accident (humanly speaking). One thing led to another, and before we knew it, there was a baby church! In this passage we can see Jesus’ ministry just getting started in much the same way—and how it developed, step by step. Let’s take a look.
First Jesus comes to Simon’s house, and accidentally (if there are accidents with God!) He finds out that Simon’s mother-in-law is sick; He heals her. But that news flies all over the neighborhood, and before you know it, the whole city is standing at the door!
And among them are people who are possessed by demons. Jesus knows He can’t let them speak freely, because the first thing they do is start shouting about how He is the Holy One of God—which is a title that could get Him crucified early. Much earlier than God intends—far too early for Jesus to spend three years training His disciples, for instance! So the demons need to be quiet. And Jesus shuts them up.
After a long day of all this, Jesus must need His sleep. But even more He needs to spend time praying and listening to God the Father. And that is where His disciples find Him early the next morning. At which point He knows it’s time for them to move on—to see new people and new villages—so that everyone will have a chance to hear the Gospel and believe.
The Holy Spirit is in charge of these chains of so-called coincidence; He can lead us where He wants us to be. And you, too, can tell people you love about Jesus your Savior—the One who died and rose again for you and for all people. Ask the Spirit to show you the first step. Then trust Him to lead you where He wants you to go—even when you’re not aware of it.
WE PRAY: Lord, I’m nervous. Show me the first baby step toward what You want me to do. Amen.
This Daily Devotion was written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Reflection Questions:
1. What major projects have you done in your life?
2. What baby steps did they start with?
3. What baby steps has God led you to in your own life, to serve Him?