Scripture: Mark 13:1-2
As he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher, what large stones and what large buildings!” Then Jesus asked him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.”
Thought for the Day: It’s interesting how the Gospel writer is writing this after the destruction of the temple. How do the words of Jesus and the author’s reflection on the world events impact what is written and how it is heard by the Markan community? The question Jesus asked the disciple is interesting: Do you see these great buildings? The word great appears numerous times in Mark’s Gospel, but in chapter 10, Jesus teaches his disciples with the words:
…whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant…
For Mark, he is using the temple and its destruction as a reminder of Jesus’ understanding of greatness. It is not found in mighty buildings and other demonstrations of earthly power, but in the work of a servant. The great institution will come down, but in its coming down, it will finally be able to be what it was called to be.
Prayer: O Lord God, you revealed yourself in the form of a servant. The life and ministry of Jesus shows for us a radical departure from a worldly understanding of power and strength. Draw us to the work of humble service – draw us to that place where the Gospel of Jesus comes alive. Amen.
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Entrance into Holy Week
