What Jesus Did! 'Away from the Crowd' — Mark 7:32-35

Thursday, May 7, 2020

A deaf man with a speech impediment was brought to [Jesus], and the people begged Jesus to lay his hands on the man to heal him.

Jesus led him away from the crowd so they could be alone. He put his fingers into the man's ears. Then, spitting on his own fingers, he touched the man's tongue. Looking up to heaven, he sighed and said, "Ephphatha," which means, "Be opened!" Instantly the man could hear perfectly, and his tongue was freed so he could speak plainly!

— Mark 7:32-35 NLT
Illustration of Mark 7:32-35 NLT — "Ephphatha," —— "Be opened!"

Key Thought

Jesus' concern is clearly to bless and heal this man, not to make a name for himself. He has power over disease as well as demons. His desire is to use that power to bless and deliver, not to amaze or bewilder the crowds. As God's Son among us, Jesus is personal and intentional with his care. He will not exploit another's misfortune to receive praise just as a miracle worker. What a powerful lesson for all of us who call him our Lord and example.

Today's Prayer

Father, thank you for the powerful example of Jesus. He is not just trying to please a crowd, but to bless the broken and train his followers. Please give me this same balance in my life and in my ministry. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Matthew 6:1-4
  • Mark 5:37-43
  • John 8:3-11

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show 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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