February 22, 2019: SOAP #3368:  Numbers 10-11; Psalm 27; Mark 1

Scripture:  Mark (NIV) 1:9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” 12 At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert, 13 and he was in the desert for forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.

Observation:  Jesus had been living among men for 30 years.  He had been raised by Mary and Joseph.  He had been taught as a young Jewish boy.  He had learned the scriptures as every young Jewish boy of those days.  He had been baptized by John and the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove descended on Him.  Surely, He was ready for ministry!

But, no!  There was another detail that must be covered.  He must be tempted in every way as are we.  The three temptations of Eve in the Garden, the same three temptations that come to every person; Jesus had to face them too.  The lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life. (Genesis 3:6; Luke 4:3,5,9; 1John 2:16)

Application:  The details of preparation seem to never end, especially while one is experiencing them.  God know the place and manner of our ministry, so He specifically prepares us to be ready.

He is preparing a place for me, AND He is preparing me for that place.  I am thinking that it is taking more time to prepare me for that place than it is for Him to prepare that place for me!

Prayer:   Lord help me not to get discouraged as You work out the details that are preparing me to fit into your future plans.  Have your way in my life.  Mold me and make me according to your wisdom and your love.  When I get to heaven, may I fit perfectly into the place you have prepared for me.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!