Mark 1 -- The Theme of Jesus As A Servant

My commentary says, "Mark wrote for the Romans and his theme was Jesus Christ the Servant ... He shares three important facts:  The Servant's Identity, Authority, and Sympathy," in this opening chapter.

His Identity is established using witnesses:  Mark, the prophets, John the Baptist, God the Father, and The Holy Spirit.  That's a pretty hefty bunch of witnesses!

As to His Authority, it said, "We expect a servant to be under authority and to take orders, but God's servant exercises authority and gives orders -- even to demons -- and His orders are obeyed."

His Servanthood was evidenced by His baptism with the appearance of the Holy Spirit and God's glory along with God's voice.  With all that glory, He could have basked in it, but he asked to be baptized even though He'd committed no sins.  It's also evidenced by how quickly he left that glory to head into the wilderness for the 40 days of temptation that would almost drain Him, but would confirm His dependence on His Father and His willingness to do His will.

His Sympathy and compassion were evidenced by two miracles of healing:  His healing of Peter's sick mother and His willingness to touch a leper during his healing, something the man hadn't experienced in years.

It said also, "If the Son of God came as a servant, then being a servant is the highest of all callings.  We are never more like the Lord Jesus than when we are serving others."

Another important reminder:  "If you are going to be a servant, be sure you have compassion, because people will come to you for help and rarely ask if it is convenient."

Father, continue to equip me to be a compassionate servant, even when I'm tired.  Let me place others ahead of myself to show them You.

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Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford