In the middle chapters of Mark (7-10) Jesus’ ministry continues to grow. Last month we saw how hard it was for him and the disciples to have even a moment to themselves. His popularity was reaching what we might call “Star” status. His reaction to this may surprise you. He did his best to downplay his popularity. He often told the people he healed, “Don’t tell anyone.” But word of him spread like wildfire.
Many people today are looking for recognition. We post something on social media and then count the number of “likes” or responses we get. Even our choice of restaurants and what we order is shared for all to see. How do we know when to share something or when to keep it between us and God? One of the first questions we should ask ourselves is why am I looking for popularity? What do I hope to gain? Who do I want to get the recognition or credit? Jesus warned us in the Sermon on the Mount not to do our acts of righteousness just for others to see. Who do I wish to receive the recognition? Do I genuinely want others to see Jesus in me and for him to receive the praise?
Jesus knew why he had come and it wasn’t to build a large fan base or receive the adoration of the crowds. He was here to carry out the will of the Father and that was more important to him then winning the praise of men. There’s an old saying that goes something like this, “It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we don’t care who gets the credit.” In your life who are you trying to impress, yourself, others, or the Lord?
Don
Many people today are looking for recognition. We post something on social media and then count the number of “likes” or responses we get. Even our choice of restaurants and what we order is shared for all to see. How do we know when to share something or when to keep it between us and God? One of the first questions we should ask ourselves is why am I looking for popularity? What do I hope to gain? Who do I want to get the recognition or credit? Jesus warned us in the Sermon on the Mount not to do our acts of righteousness just for others to see. Who do I wish to receive the recognition? Do I genuinely want others to see Jesus in me and for him to receive the praise?
Jesus knew why he had come and it wasn’t to build a large fan base or receive the adoration of the crowds. He was here to carry out the will of the Father and that was more important to him then winning the praise of men. There’s an old saying that goes something like this, “It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we don’t care who gets the credit.” In your life who are you trying to impress, yourself, others, or the Lord?
Don
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