What Jesus Did! 'Someday He Will Be Taken Away' — Mark 2:19-20

Sunday, February 7, 2016

Jesus answered, "When there is a wedding, the friends of the bridegroom are not sad while he is with them. They cannot fast (be sad) while the bridegroom is still there. But the time will come when the bridegroom will leave them. The friends are sad when the bridegroom leaves. Then they will fast."
— Mark 2:19-20 NLT
Illustration of Mark 2:19-20 NLT — But the time will come when the bridegroom will leave them.

Key Thought

The reason Jesus' disciples didn't fast (see the previous verses) was involved with the timing of his ministry, not their piety. They would fast when he was taken from them—the first hint that Jesus will face a painful ending to his life. While he was present with them physically, however, they would not fast. Instead, they would enjoy his presence and celebrate his love.

Today's Prayer

Father, help me know the proper time for each of my spiritual activities—feasting and fasting, rejoicing and weeping, comforting and being comforted, celebrating and repenting contritely. This I ask in Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Ecclesiastes 3:1-11
  • Ephesians 5:15-17
  • Matthew 6:16-18

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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