Wednesday, week two: The healings begin (Devotions for Lent from the Gospel of Mark)

Simon’s mother-in-law has a fever and things aren’t looking good.

In our time, a fever is generally no big deal. We take two fever reducers, bundle up, hunker down, and wait it out. If that doesn’t work, we consult someone capable of making an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment.

But in Jesus’ time, a fever was a big deal. A fever could knock you out, and because Jesus lived in the time before the discovery of germs and the invention of vaccinations, advanced medications, and surgical procedures, a fever was often the first sign of the beginning of the end.

Upon entering the house, they tell Jesus about her at once. Most likely they are not worried about their dinner. They are worried because her life is in danger.

What happens next happens quickly. No consultations, tests, lab results, or waiting for medications to take effect. Jesus takes her by the hand and lifts her up. The fever leaves and Sabbath life resumes.

Jesus had demonstrated a new teaching with power and authority just moments before in synagogue, the world of Jewish men. He does so again here, right across the street from the synagogue, in the world of Jewish women. He is Lord of the Sabbath, synagogue, holy scriptures, and those who study them. And he is Lord of the home, Sabbath meal, and those who prepare it.

Unlike Caesar, who calls himself “The Son of God,” Jesus exhibits power and authority in the places that matter most to people, in the heart of their worship and in the places they live and rest. Unlike Caesar, he exhibits a kind of power that demands nothing from anyone; not taxes, not military service, not even allegiance. He demonstrates that he is an emperor worth following.

Text for the day:

Mark 1:29-31

Things to think about:

In Capernaum of Galilee today, you can visit the ruins of the first century synagogue and the house of Simon’s mother-in-law, which are directly across the street from one another. It is possible to stand in the places where Jesus’ power and authority were first displayed, and noticed that he didn’t travel far to change worlds.

Things to do:

Take a self-inventory. Are there any places in your life where you are unwilling to have Jesus demonstrate power and authority?

Jesus, demonstrate power in my heart and home.