Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

October 30: Job 21; Mark 5-6

Scripture: Mark (NIV) 6:1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. “Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? 3 Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.

Observation: The people in his home town would know about his family. They knew that he grew up as a carpenter’s son and worked as a carpenter. They knew who his mother was. They knew his brothers, even their names. They knew about his sisters. It was hard for those living in his home town to believe that this boy who grew up among them could have such wisdom and perform such miracles. Later in the book of Acts, Jesus brother, James, would become the “go-to” person of the church. (Acts 12:2,17; 15:13; 21:18; Galatians 1:19)

John the Baptist seems to me to be somewhat of a loner living in the wilderness. In contrast, Jesus lived among people. He was a people person. With four brothers and at least two sisters, and living in Capernaum, there were many people to attest to his humanity and to his character.

Application: The Christian life is to be lived in community. Living among my family is very important. They are the ones who know me best. They know me on my good days and bad days.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for my family. I am blest! Thank you for their love and support. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!