Journal Day 13

October 14 2006 - Day 13

Mark 8:11-13

Passage: “The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” And he left them, got into the boat again, and went to the other side.” It is simply amazing to see that the people wanted and needed another sign from Jesus to show that He was the Messiah. Jesus just fed four thousand people with only a couple rolls and a few bream fish. Before that Jesus healed a deaf man. Before that Jesus cast out a demon from a young girl. What more did they need?

Application: While it is surprising to see the Pharisees and most of the Jews disbelieve in Jesus even in the face of great miracles, I confess that I would not have believed either. In fact, I didn’t believe for nineteen years of my life. Only by the grace of God did I ever believe and have faith in Jesus Christ as the Messiah, the Savior. Only by the grace of God did I ever understand that Jesus is the the God-Man who died on the cross in my place, receiving my punishment. Only by the grace of God did I ever come to believe that Jesus rose from the dead three days later and now that He has conquered death He offers me eternal life. If Jesus is who He said He was then He demands my truest faith and my strongest devotion. Oh Jesus, thank you for your grace in my life! Help me to live in a way that honors who you are. Increase my faith day by day! Amen.