Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

Mark 1 Devotional

As Willing as He Is Able

“Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” He said. “Be clean!””Mark 1:41 (BSB)

Mark wastes no time. In a single chapter Jesus is baptized and named by the Father as his beloved Son, tested in the wilderness, and sent out preaching. He calls fishermen from their nets, silences an unclean spirit with a word, and heals a whole town's sick gathered at the door. People are amazed at his authority (1:22, 1:27), and even the demons know who he is (1:24).

The chapter closes with a quieter scene. A leper kneels before Jesus, sure of his power and unsure only of his willingness (1:40). Jesus is moved with compassion, reaches out his hand, touches the man, and answers that very doubt before the leprosy leaves him (1:41-42). In Mark, the power of Jesus is never in question. What this moment settles is his heart. The Son of God is as willing as he is able. You do not have to wonder whether he wants you before you come to him.

To think about: What have you been slow to bring to Jesus because you are unsure he wants to help?

About Mark 1: The Beginning of the Gospel

John the Baptist prepares the way, and Jesus is baptized, tested in the wilderness, and begins proclaiming that the kingdom of God has come near. He calls fishermen to follow him, casts out an unclean spirit, heals many in Capernaum, and cleanses a leper.

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