Today's Scripture: Mark 15:33 At noon, darkness covered the whole Land until three o’clock in the afternoon. 34 At three, he uttered a loud cry, “Elohi! Elohi! L’mah sh’vaktani?” (which means, “My God! My God! Why have you deserted me?”)[Mark 15:34 Psalm 22:2(1)] 35 On hearing this, some of the bystanders said, “Look! He’s calling for Eliyahu!” 36 One ran and soaked a sponge in vinegar, put it on a stick and gave it to him to drink.[Mark 15:36 Psalm 69:22(21)] “Wait!” he said, “Let’s see if Eliyahu will come and take him down.” 37 But Yeshua let out a loud cry and gave up his spirit. 38 And the parokhet in the Temple was torn in two from top to bottom. 39 When the Roman officer who stood facing him saw the way he gave up his spirit, he said, “This man really was a son of God!”
40 There were women looking on from a distance; among them were Miryam from Magdala, Miryam the mother of the younger Ya‘akov and of Yosi, and Shlomit. 41 These women had followed him and helped him when he was in the Galil. And many other women were there who had come up with him to Yerushalayim.(Complete Jewish Bible).
***This was the lowest point in Jesus’ ministry: suffering and death on the cross. Mark tells the story in his characteristic, precise way. The minute details are bare, but there. The questioning of the witnesses is noted: Perhaps this man thinks that Elijah will save Him. They wait in anticipation for something, or nothing, to happen.
Despite the horrific events unfolding, those who followed Jesus and cared for him were there. Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joseph, and Salome stood, watching from a distance. They were not able to simply turn away when trouble came: they had been the ones to care for Jesus during his ministry.
Caring isn’t always the easiest, most rewarding activity. Caregivers, those looking out for the needs of others, have to be intentional about making sure their needs are also met.
Caring for another goes beyond mere happy thoughts and an occasional favor. Caring puts the other person’s need ahead of your wants. It is no mistake that those who “cared for Jesus” were also those who “followed” him. Through the enabling of the Holy Spirit are we able to share God’s love and care for others.
Hymn for Today: "Come, Every One Who Is Thirsty" by Lucy J. Rider.
1. Come every one who is thirsty in spirit;
Come, every one who is weary and sad.
Come to the fountain, there’s fullness in Jesus -
All that you’re longing for; Come and be glad!
Refrain: "I will pour water on him that is thirsty;
I will pour floods upon the dry ground.
Open your heart for the gifts I am bringing;
While ye are seeking Me I will be found."
2. Child of the world, are you tired of your bondage?
Weary of earth-joys, so false, so untrue?
Thirsting for God and His fullness of blessing?
List to the promise, a message for you.
Refrain: "I will pour water on him that is thirsty;
I will pour floods upon the dry ground.
Open your heart for the gifts I am bringing;
While ye are seeking Me I will be found."
3. Child of the Kingdom, be filled with the Spirit!
Nothing but fullness thy longing can meet.
’Tis the enduement for life and for service.
Thine is the promise, so certain, so sweet!
Refrain: "I will pour water on him that is thirsty;
I will pour floods upon the dry ground.
Open your heart for the gifts I am bringing;
While ye are seeking Me I will be found."
Please pray: for the students involved in extension Bible school programs.
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