A day in the life

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

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A day in the life

Overnight the weather changed. The sky cleared and stars shone bright. A breeze sprang up from the east an hour before dawn, and new colors breathed life into the landscape – from black to a dim purple, brighter orange. The birds opened their eyes and so did some of us. Larks sang a wake up call.

Rising very early before dawn, Jesus left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed.

*            *           *

It has been quite a day, Father. You fill my spirit and give me words. All creation rings. You brought us to a sweet woman. Healed by you and filled with energy and the Holy Spirit, she brought us food and loved us.

Jesus approached Simon’s mother-in-law sick with a fever. He grasped her hand and helped her up. The fever left her.

But she did much more than that. She told her friends, and the house filled with the sick. You poured out your healing. So many demons bowed their heads and went out. They didn’t say anything, they just left.

The whole town was gathered at the door. He cured many who were sick, and he drove out many demons, not permitting them to speak because they knew him.

Why don’t you want the demons to speak, Father?

They will speak of who we are, but they will use the words and voice of their father the devil. We will speak for ourselves.

Simon is leading the others up the hill. The sun has risen. Our time together has been sweet, Father. I’m ready for another day, and I think my disciples are too. Will you make us into a team? I want to show them more and more about you. I want them to see how much they need healing themselves, just like the others.

*            *           *

Simon led the way up the hill. His sandals were loose because he rushed away from his bed. He felt a couple of rocks catch under his feet and tear at his heel. Then he saw Jesus, kneeling, looking up at the sky. Simon heard him praying and hesitated, but just for a moment.

Everyone is looking for you, Jesus.

Simon didn’t have much time for sleep last night. His family sang with joy, healing and new life poured out of every corner of their house. Hallelujahs lifted the roof. Hosannas swept over their heads. They were happy. Jesus looked up. He too looked happy.

Let’s go on to the nearby villages. I will preach there too. For that purpose I have come.

And so much has happened! The kingdom of God calls all of us out of every town. We live ahead of ourselves, dancing in perfect time with our Father. Life breathes in and out. Death has no dominion.

Jesus went into their synagogues, preaching and driving out demons throughout the whole of Galilee.

The whole of Galilee!

God is alive, and Jesus is afoot.

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord. I know them, and they follow me.

(Hebrews 2, Psalm 105, John 10, Mark 1)

(posted at www.davesandel.net)

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