A Glowing Light in the Darkness

There’s something special about autumn. The crisp air, the vibrant colors, and the smell of pumpkin spice in the air all signal the beginning of a new season. With shorter days and longer nights, it’s a time when we start to see warm lights glowing from windows and pumpkins lit on doorsteps, reminding us that even in the darkness, light shines through.

As I reflect on this season, I’m reminded of something that happened years ago. My sister, Lesley, made me a beautiful, personalized pumpkin. It wasn’t just any pumpkin; it was one she made especially for me. At that time, I wouldn’t have imagined receiving such a gift—being invited into their lives, knowing they thought about me during their special Pumpkin Party.

That pumpkin wasn’t just a decoration. It was a reminder that I was loved, seen, and thought of. It was a small act of kindness that radiated love and connection. And it still reminds me today of the light we are all called to be for others.

Reflecting Christ��s Light in a Dark World

So many years have passed since I received that pumpkin, but the lesson remains the same. In a world that often feels darker with each passing year, we are called to be lights in the darkness. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus tells us, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

The world today can feel heavy with conflict, pain, and fear. But as Christians, we carry within us the light of Christ. This light is not meant to be hidden. Instead, we are called to shine brightly, illuminating hope, love, and truth for those around us. Just as that glowing pumpkin on my doorstep all those years ago reminded me of the love of my family, we are called to remind others of the love of our Heavenly Father.

Unconditional Love and Connection

The thing that stood out to me most about that gift from Lesley was how it represented my family’s unconditional love. They didn’t care about my accomplishments or how clean my house was—they simply loved me for who I was. That pumpkin was a symbol of that connection.

This is how we, as God’s family, should love one another. As Christians, we share the same Heavenly Father, and because of that, we should love each other unconditionally. 1 John 4:7 says, “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” Just as my family thought of me all those years ago, we should think of one another, praying, encouraging, and loving each other in tangible ways.

Sharing Your Light This Autumn

As the air grows cooler and the nights longer, I encourage you to think about how you can share your light with those around you. It doesn’t have to be grand or elaborate. Sometimes, the simplest gestures—a note, a small gift, or a prayer—can have the greatest impact.

Here are a few action steps to help you share your light and reflect the love of Christ with others this autumn:

1. Pray for those in your life.
   Each day, take a few moments to pray for the people God has placed in your path. Ask Him to show you ways to bless and encourage them.
2. Perform a simple act of kindness.
   Whether it’s leaving a small gift on a neighbor’s porch, sending a card to a friend, or offering a listening ear, these small acts can make a big difference.
3. Invite others into your life.
   Just as my family invited me into their Pumpkin Party all those years ago, invite others into your life. Whether it’s through a meal, a coffee date, or a walk in the park, offer connection to those who may feel isolated.
4. Speak words of encouragement.
   Be intentional with your words. Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Your words can bring healing and hope to someone who needs it.
5. Be a reflection of Christ in your actions.
   In your workplace, at home, or in your community, let your actions reflect the love of Christ. Whether you’re showing grace to someone who doesn’t deserve it or serving someone in need, your light can shine brightest in these moments.

A Time to Glow

Autumn is a season of change, but it’s also a time of reflection. As the world around us changes with the seasons, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness and the light He calls us to carry. Just like pumpkins glowing on doorsteps, we are called to shine brightly in a world that desperately needs the light of Christ.

That pumpkin from my sister, though it was given to me nearly two decades ago, still serves as a powerful reminder that small acts of love can light up someone’s life. And as we enter into this season of autumn, let’s commit to being lights for those around us, reflecting the love and grace of our Heavenly Father.

Shine Your Light

This week, take a small step to share your light with someone else. Whether it’s a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or simply spending time with someone who needs encouragement, let your light shine for others to see. As you do, remember that the light you carry comes from Christ—the One who calls us to be a light in the darkness.

Together, let’s shine brightly this autumn, pointing others to the One who is the true source of all light. Even in the darkest of times, we can be the light that leads others to God’s love.

Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH

Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle

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October 7
Mark 5:1-20, Matthew 8:28-34, Luke 8:26-39, Mark 5:21-43, Matthew 9:18-26, Luke 8:40-56

Incredible Transformations

Today’s readings are packed with incredible stories of transformation—stories where people who were once broken, sick, and even dead were radically changed by encountering Jesus. These miracles are not just physical healings; they represent deep spiritual changes that demonstrate Jesus’ power over evil, sickness, and death.

Jesus Heals the Demon-Possessed Man (Mark 5:1-20, Matthew 8:28-34, Luke 8:26-39)

In these passages, we see a man possessed by a legion of demons living in torment, completely isolated from society. No one could control him, and he wandered among the tombs, unable to live a normal life. Yet when Jesus approached, even the demons recognized His authority, calling Him by name—“Jesus, Son of the Most High God.”

Jesus, in His mercy, frees the man from the demons, sending them into a herd of pigs, which plunge into the sea. While this terrified the local people—who were more comfortable with a tormented man in their midst than with the power of Jesus—the transformation was undeniable. The man who had been living in chaos and madness was now calm, clothed, and in his right mind.

The people of the town asked Jesus to leave, but the healed man wanted to follow Jesus. Instead, Jesus told him to go home and share what God had done for him. This man became a living testimony of transformation—a beacon of hope in his community.

Two Miracles in One Journey (Mark 5:21-43, Matthew 9:18-26, Luke 8:40-56)

As Jesus continued His ministry, He was approached by Jairus, a synagogue leader whose daughter was gravely ill. Jairus’s faith led him to beg Jesus for healing. But along the way, another miracle took place. A woman who had been suffering from a bleeding disorder for twelve years reached out to touch Jesus’ garment. Her faith was simple: if she could just touch Him, she believed she would be healed. And she was!

Jesus, sensing the power had gone out from Him, stopped and commended her faith. Meanwhile, Jairus received the devastating news that his daughter had died. But Jesus wasn’t done. He went to Jairus’s house, told him not to be afraid, and raised the little girl from the dead. Imagine the joy, relief, and awe her parents must have felt!

Each of these stories shows us Jesus’ power to bring about not just healing, but total transformation.

The Power of Transformation

These miracles reveal a theme of transformation that goes far beyond physical healing. The demon-possessed man went from chaos to peace, the woman with the bleeding disorder went from untouchable to whole, and Jairus’s daughter went from death to life. Each of these transformations reflects the change that Jesus brings to our lives.

The truth is, Jesus still transforms lives today. He takes our brokenness, our sickness, our isolation, and even our spiritual death and replaces them with peace, healing, community, and new life.

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Word of the Day: Transformation
“The induced or spontaneous change of one element into another by a nuclear process.”

In today’s readings, the transformations we witness are nothing short of miraculous—people going from madness to peace, sickness to healing, and death to life. When Jesus steps into our lives, His transformative power is radical and complete. He doesn’t just make slight improvements; He changes us from the inside out, just like a nuclear process transforms one element into another.

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Application #1:
Transformation in our lives isn’t just about outward changes; it’s about inner restoration. When we come to Jesus—whether we are feeling broken, isolated, or lost—He offers us the same transformation He gave to those we read about today. The demoniac’s chaos became peace, the woman’s sickness became health, and Jairus’s grief was replaced with joy.

Like these people, we too can experience transformation through faith in Jesus. Whether we are struggling with internal chaos, external trials, or fear, Jesus has the power to turn things around. Sometimes the change is dramatic, other times it’s gradual, but one thing remains: Jesus is always working to transform us into reflections of His love, peace, and power.

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Application #2
Transformation can be both spontaneous and induced—sometimes it comes after a dramatic encounter with God, and other times it’s a process that unfolds over time. But whether quick or slow, the change Jesus brings is thorough. It’s not just a shift; it’s a complete reworking of who we are. In physics, the word transformation refers to the change of one element into another by a nuclear process. This is fitting when we consider the power of Christ’s work in our lives.

We’re not just slightly improved versions of ourselves; in Christ, we are new creations. And this transformation, once begun, is ongoing. He continues to change us, molding us into His likeness, and allowing us to live out the fullness of the life He has called us to.

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October 8
Matthew 9:27-34, Mark 6:1-6, Matthew 13:53-58, Matthew 9:35-38, Mark 6:7-13, Matthew 10:1-42, Luke 9:1-6

The Authority of Jesus: Healing, Honor, and the Power of Faith

Today’s reading takes us deeper into understanding the authority of Jesus and how He used it not just to heal but to bring about transformation in people’s lives. We see a variety of stories that demonstrate His compassion, His power, and how the people around Him responded to that authority.

Two Blind Men and a Mute Man (Matthew 9:27-34)

The first story centers around two blind men who cry out to Jesus, calling Him the “Son of David”—a Messianic title that shows they recognized His authority and power to heal. Jesus asks if they believe He can do this, and when they affirm their faith, He heals them. “Because of your faith, it will happen,” Jesus says, emphasizing the connection between faith and healing.

In the same passage, we also read about a demon-possessed man who is brought to Jesus. After Jesus casts out the demon, the man who had been mute begins to speak. While the people are amazed, the Pharisees accuse Jesus of casting out demons by the ruler of demons. This reflects a deeper theme of the honor-shame dynamic at play. Jesus was challenging the established religious authority, and this did not sit well with the Pharisees. But to the crowds, Jesus’ power and authority were undeniable.

Returning Home: Honor and Unbelief (Mark 6:1-6)

Next, we read about Jesus returning to His hometown of Nazareth, where He is met with skepticism. Despite His astonishing teachings, the people couldn’t get past their familiarity with Him. “He’s just a carpenter, the son of Mary,” they scoffed. In an honor-shame society, Jesus’ claim to authority was met with dishonor in His own hometown. They were offended, and their lack of faith limited what Jesus could do there.

This passage highlights how familiarity can breed contempt. The people of Nazareth could not reconcile the Jesus they grew up with and the rabbi performing miracles before them. And because of their lack of honor and faith, they missed out on the fullness of what Jesus could have done in their lives.

Sending Out the Disciples: Jesus Shares His Authority (Mark 6:7-13, Matthew 10:1-42, Luke 9:1-6)

One of the most significant moments in today’s reading is when Jesus commissions His disciples, giving them the same authority He has—authority to heal the sick, raise the dead, and cast out demons. This is the first time in Matthew’s Gospel that the twelve disciples are called apostles, which means “ones who are sent out.”

Jesus instructs them to go to the lost sheep of Israel and to proclaim that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. He warns them that they will face persecution but assures them that they should not be afraid of those who can only kill the body, for God will take care of their souls. His final instruction is both challenging and comforting: “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.”

This delegation of authority is profound. Jesus did not just perform miracles Himself; He empowered His followers to do the same, and He does the same for us today. As His disciples, we carry His authority with us to bring light, healing, and the Good News to a world in desperate need.

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Word of the Day: Authority
The biblical definition of authority is the power or ability to do something, given by or derived from a higher authority.

In today’s reading, we see Jesus not only demonstrating His divine authority but also sharing it with His disciples. Whether it was healing the blind, casting out demons, or sending His disciples to spread the Good News, Jesus’ authority was evident in everything He did. But His authority wasn’t just about power; it was about serving, healing, and freeing others.

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Application #1: Trusting the Authority of Jesus

Imagine being touched by Jesus. His touch carried authority, as we saw when He healed the blind men and the mute man. But in the society He lived in, authority was tied to honor. Jesus didn’t just perform miracles—He was constantly in an “honor contest” with those around Him, especially the Pharisees. Yet, despite the challenges, Jesus continued to demonstrate His authority through love and compassion.

How are we responding to Jesus’ authority in our lives today? Are we honoring Him by trusting His power to heal and restore, or are we holding back, skeptical like the people of Nazareth?

As His followers, we have two choices:

1. Trust the authority of Jesus and honor Him with our faith and actions.
2. Deny His authority because we don’t fully understand it.

Even when we don’t understand, Jesus remains sovereign. His authority is not dependent on our belief—it is inherent in who He is. But when we align ourselves with His authority, we open ourselves up to experience His power in profound ways. And just as He sent His disciples out with authority, He has also given us the authority to be light bearers and chain breakers in the world today.

Application #2: Living with Humble Authority

Jesus’ authority wasn’t about domination—it was about service and love. He didn’t just heal and cast out demons for the sake of displaying power; He did it to set people free. When He sent out His disciples, He equipped them to serve others with the same heart of compassion.

In our own lives, we are called to exercise the authority given to us by Jesus. Whether it’s sharing the Good News, serving those in need, or praying for healing, we have the same power at work within us. But this authority is to be used with humility and a heart of service, always pointing back to Jesus, the source of that power.

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October 9
Luke 9:7-9, Mark 6:14-29, Matthew 14:1-21, Mark 6:30-44, Luke 9:10-17, John 6:1-15, Mark 6:45-52, Matthew 14:22-33, John 6:16-21, Mark 6:53-56, Matthew 14:34-36

Leftovers of Faith: Jesus’ Compassion, Power, and Provision

Today’s reading highlights some of the most remarkable moments in Jesus’ ministry. From feeding thousands to calming storms, we witness not only His miraculous power but also His deep compassion for those around Him. Let’s dive into these stories and reflect on the “leftovers”—the overflow of God’s grace in our lives.

The Feeding of the 5,000: An Abundance of Leftovers (Mark 6:30-44, Luke 9:10-17)

The story of Jesus feeding over 5,000 people with just five loaves and two fish is one of the most well-known miracles in the Bible. The people were so eager to follow Jesus that they didn’t even think about bringing food. After all, they were in the presence of the One who spoke with authority, healed the sick, and revealed God’s love in powerful ways.

What amazes me about this story is not just the miracle of multiplication but the fact that there were leftovers—twelve baskets full. Jesus didn’t just provide enough for the crowd; He provided more than enough. This overflow is a reminder that God’s provision always surpasses our needs. Jesus could have given the exact amount, but He left an abundance. This teaches us that God is not a God of scarcity. He gives generously and beyond what we could ever imagine.

Jesus Walks on Water: Facing Real and Imagined Fears (Mark 6:45-52, Matthew 14:22-33, John 6:16-21)

After feeding the crowd, Jesus sends His disciples across the Sea of Galilee while He stays behind to pray. In the middle of the night, as the disciples struggle against the wind and waves, Jesus walks out to them on the water. At first, they are terrified, thinking He’s a ghost. But Jesus reassures them with these words: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”

Peter, full of faith, steps out onto the water but quickly falters when he realizes the danger around him. Yet even in his doubt, Jesus reaches out and saves him. This scene illustrates not only the power of Jesus but also His willingness to meet us in the middle of our fears—both real and imagined.

Just as Herod was haunted by the ghost of John the Baptist, fearing that Jesus was John raised from the dead, we, too, can be plagued by fears that stem from our own guilt or misunderstandings. But Jesus calms our fears and holds us up, even when our faith falters. He reassures us that, in Him, we have nothing to fear.

Jesus’ Compassion for the Left Behind (Mark 6:53-56, Matthew 14:34-36)

When Jesus and His disciples arrive on the other side of the lake, people immediately recognize Him and bring their sick to be healed. These were the forgotten, the marginalized, the “leftovers” of society. Yet, Jesus doesn’t ignore them. Instead, He heals them with compassion, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah who cares for the sick and the needy.

Psalm 102:16-17 says, “For the LORD will rebuild Jerusalem. He will appear in His glory. He will listen to the prayers of the needy. He will not reject their pleas.” Jesus lived out this compassion, healing those who were considered the least and the last, showing that no one is beyond His care.

In many ways, we are all “leftovers”—people who have been cast aside by the world, burdened by our mistakes, or weighed down by life’s challenges. But Jesus reaches out to us, not with judgment, but with love and healing. His compassion is a sign of His Messianic mission and a reminder that He cares for each of us personally.

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Word of the Day: Leftovers

“Something, especially food, remaining after the rest has been used or consumed.”

In today’s reading, we see that Jesus not only provides enough, but He provides more than enough. The twelve baskets of leftovers gathered after the feeding of the 5,000 symbolize the abundance of God’s provision in our lives. But what about the “leftovers” of our own hearts—the doubts, fears, and mistakes that weigh us down? Jesus, in His compassion, reaches out to us even in our brokenness, offering healing and restoration. His love doesn’t run out; it overflows.

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Application #1: Trusting in the Overflow of God’s Provision

When I think of leftovers, I think of abundance—more than enough to go around. Jesus didn’t just meet the needs of the crowd; He exceeded them. And the same is true for us. Often, we focus on what we lack instead of what God has already provided in abundance. We forget that He is the God who gives more than we can ever ask or imagine.

But it’s not just about physical provision. Jesus also meets us in the emotional and spiritual “leftovers” of our lives—the places where we feel broken, lost, or forgotten. Whether it’s the fear that grips us in the middle of life’s storms or the shame that lingers from past mistakes, Jesus reaches out with compassion, calming our fears and bringing peace.

Just as He walked on water to be with His disciples, Jesus comes to us in the middle of our struggles, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” He is with us, even in the storms of life, and He has the power to calm the chaos around us.

Application #2: Compassion for the “Leftovers”

As we read about the people who rushed to Jesus for healing, we are reminded that He cares for those whom society overlooks—the “leftovers.” These were people who had no honor, no status, and no hope. Yet, Jesus didn’t turn them away. He healed them, showing that His love and compassion extend to everyone, regardless of their status or situation.

In the same way, we are called to reflect that compassion in our own lives. Who are the “leftovers” in our world—the people who are overlooked, marginalized, or forgotten? How can we, as followers of Christ, extend His love and compassion to them?

As we trust in the overflow of God’s provision for ourselves, let’s also be generous in sharing that overflow with others. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or simply being present with someone in need, we have the opportunity to be vessels of God’s love in a world that so desperately needs it.

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October 10
John 6:22-71, Mark 7:1-23, Matthew 15:1-20

The Bread of Life: Jesus’ Call to Our Hearts

In today’s readings, Jesus offers profound insights into what truly matters—our hearts. The physical bread that sustains us is fleeting, but the spiritual nourishment Jesus offers leads to eternal life. As we dig deeper into His teachings, we’re called to examine our hearts and our hunger for God.

Jesus: The Bread of Life (John 6:22-71)

After feeding the 5,000, the crowd follows Jesus across the Sea of Galilee. When they find Him, they are hungry—physically and spiritually. Jesus points out that they are seeking Him because they ate their fill of bread, but He wants them to hunger for something more: eternal life. Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35)

This statement carries great weight. Jesus is not just another teacher; He is the source of life itself. The crowd, however, struggles with His words, especially when He talks about eating His flesh and drinking His blood. This teaching is difficult, and many turn away, unable to accept it.

But Jesus doesn’t back down. His message is clear—eternal life comes only through Him, the true bread from heaven. In the end, it’s Peter who acknowledges what the others could not: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68)

Jesus’ invitation is open to all, but it’s not always easy to accept. He calls us to place our faith in Him completely, to trust Him as the Bread of Life that sustains us.

The Pharisees and the Heart of the Matter (Mark 7:1-23, Matthew 15:1-20)

While Jesus teaches about the internal transformation needed to enter the kingdom of God, the Pharisees are caught up in external rituals. They question why some of Jesus’ disciples don’t follow the traditional hand-washing rules. Jesus uses this as an opportunity to reveal a deeper truth: “It is not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart.” (Mark 7:15)

The Pharisees were so focused on outward appearances—following traditions and rituals—that they missed the importance of inner purity. Jesus points out their hypocrisy, quoting Isaiah: “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” (Mark 7:6)

What truly matters to God is the state of our hearts. Jesus lists the sins that flow from a corrupt heart—immorality, greed, deceit, envy, pride. These are what defile us, not whether we follow every religious rule to the letter.

Word of the Day: Heart

The heart is central to everything Jesus teaches. In the Bible, the heart is not just a physical organ but the seat of life, emotion, and morality. It’s where our true character resides. As Jesus explains, “For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts.” (Mark 7:21)

But Jesus also offers hope. He doesn’t just point out the problem; He offers the solution. Through Him, we can receive a new heart—one that is pure, one that reflects His love and grace. “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26)

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Feeding Your Heart with the Bread of Life

The world offers many distractions—just like the Pharisees’ focus on traditions, we too can get caught up in external appearances, in rules and routines. But Jesus calls us to something deeper. He wants our hearts, not just our actions.

As someone who grew up in church, I often heard about the “rules” but missed the “heart” of the gospel. Jesus doesn’t want us to be perfect rule-followers; He wants us to be transformed from the inside out. He wants us to hunger for the Bread of Life, to seek nourishment that lasts for eternity.

It’s easy to polish the outside, but what about the inside? Are we allowing Jesus to transform our hearts? Are we letting His Spirit cleanse us, renew us, and make us whole?

Prayer for the Heart

Lord, guide my heart’s desires. Let it hunger for You alone, the true Bread of Life. Help me not to be swayed by external rituals but to seek a genuine relationship with You. Cleanse and renew my heart daily, making it a vessel of Your love and light. Amen.

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October 11
Mark 7:24-30, Matthew 15:21-28, Mark 7:31-37, Matthew 15:29-31, Mark 8:1-10, Matthew 15:32-16:4, Mark 8:11-21, Matthew 16:5-12

Faith, Compassion, and Obedience: Trusting in Jesus’ Orders

Today’s readings are packed with rich lessons that span faith, compassion, and obedience. Jesus continues His ministry, traveling outside Jewish territory, performing miracles, and confronting misunderstandings from the religious leaders. As we explore these passages, one thing stands out—Jesus gives orders, but these are not the harsh commands of an authoritarian. Instead, they are invitations to receive His grace, provision, and healing.

The Canaanite Woman’s Faith (Mark 7:24-30 & Matthew 15:21-28)

In a surprising turn of events, Jesus travels to Tyre, a Gentile region, and encounters a Canaanite woman whose daughter is demon-possessed. At first, Jesus seems reluctant to help, stating that His mission is to the Jews. But the woman’s faith is unshakable. She persists, acknowledging Jesus’ authority and pleading for His mercy.

Jesus finally responds to her faith, healing her daughter. This story teaches us about the power of persistent faith. Even when the answer doesn’t come immediately, and even when cultural or religious boundaries seem to stand in the way, faith can break through. The woman’s humility and perseverance provide a powerful example of how we should approach God with our requests.

What’s even more profound is that this Gentile woman recognized Jesus as the “Son of David”—a Messianic title. She knew she had no claim to the Jewish Messiah, but her faith transcended cultural boundaries. Jesus was moved by her belief, showing us that faith, not ethnicity or background, is what matters to God.

Healing the Deaf Man (Mark 7:31-37 & Matthew 15:29-31)

Next, Jesus travels to the Decapolis, another Gentile region, where He heals a man who is deaf and has a speech impediment. In this intimate and personal miracle, Jesus takes the man aside, touches his ears and tongue, and orders his healing. The result? The man is immediately able to hear and speak clearly.

The people’s reaction is beautiful: “He has done everything well!” (Mark 7:37). This is a moment of collective honor for Jesus. Even in Gentile territories, people recognize His authority and compassion. Jesus doesn’t just perform miracles for show—He restores lives, one person at a time.

This healing reminds us of how deeply personal Jesus’ miracles are. He didn’t just perform acts of healing in a distant, impersonal way. He touched the man, engaged with him, and gave him back his ability to fully participate in life. It’s a reminder that Jesus sees us individually, and He cares deeply about our specific needs.

Feeding the 4,000: More Than Just a Meal (Mark 8:1-10 & Matthew 15:32-16:4)

The next passage shows Jesus feeding another large crowd—this time 4,000 men, not including women and children. The disciples are again puzzled, wondering how they will feed so many people with only seven loaves and a few fish. But just like before, Jesus gives thanks, breaks the bread, and provides for everyone. And, again, there are leftovers—seven baskets full.

This miracle shows that Jesus doesn’t just meet needs; He exceeds them. The crowd didn’t just get enough to survive—they were filled, and there was abundance left over. Jesus is a provider who works in abundance, even when our resources seem limited. It’s a reminder to trust Him, even when we can’t see how the problem will be solved.

Beware of the Yeast of the Pharisees (Mark 8:11-21 & Matthew 16:5-12)

After this miracle, the Pharisees come to test Jesus, demanding a sign from heaven. But Jesus refuses. He knows that no sign will satisfy their hardened hearts. They are not seeking truth—they are seeking to discredit Him.

Jesus then warns His disciples to beware of the “yeast” of the Pharisees and Herod. Yeast, in this context, symbolizes the corrupting influence of pride and hypocrisy. The Pharisees and Herod both sought power and authority, but for selfish reasons, not for God’s glory.

Jesus wants His followers to be vigilant and discerning, not allowing the pride and self-righteousness of the Pharisees to influence them. It’s a call for us to guard our hearts against anything that might puff us up or lead us away from the humility and faith that Jesus desires.

Word of the Day: Ordered

Today’s readings highlight a recurring theme: Jesus gives orders. But His orders aren’t burdensome—they are invitations to receive His blessings.

In each miracle, Jesus issues a command: He tells the Canaanite woman to go, her daughter is healed; He orders the deaf man’s ears to be opened; He commands the crowd to sit and eat. Even when He warns about the yeast of the Pharisees, He is giving a directive to protect His disciples.

When Jesus orders something, it’s always for our good. He commands, not out of control or domination, but out of love and compassion. He wants to provide, heal, and guide us. But just like the Canaanite woman, we need to come to Him with faith, believing that His ways are best.

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Application: Obeying the Gentle Orders of Jesus

When Jesus orders us to trust Him, to follow His Word, or to step out in faith, how do we respond? Do we hesitate, like the disciples did when they wondered how the crowd would be fed? Or do we follow His orders with faith, like the Canaanite woman, who persisted even when the answer wasn’t immediate?

Jesus’ commands are not meant to limit us but to free us. They are invitations to experience His abundance, His healing, and His provision. We are called to trust His authority and to know that He always works for our good.

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October 12
Mark 8:22-30, Matthew 16:13-20, Luke 9:18-20, Mark 8:31-9:1, Matthew 16:21-28, Luke 9:21-27, Mark 9:2-13, Matthew 17:1-13, Luke 9:28-36

What Is Worth More Than Your Soul?

As we walk through today’s scripture readings, there’s a theme that stands out: worth. Jesus calls us to reflect deeply on this question, “Is anything worth more than your soul?” It’s a question that asks us to weigh the eternal against the temporary, to measure the value of a soul—our soul—against the fleeting things of this world. Let’s dive into the heart of these passages and explore how Jesus reveals the true worth of our lives.

The Blind Man in Bethsaida (Mark 8:22-30)

The healing of the blind man in Bethsaida is intriguing because it happens in two stages. After Jesus leads the man outside the village and touches his eyes, the man initially sees people, but they appear like trees walking around. Jesus touches him again, and his sight is fully restored.

This gradual healing mirrors our spiritual journey. Sometimes, our understanding of Jesus and our faith grows in stages. We may not see clearly at first, but with time and more “touches” from Jesus, we begin to understand who He is and the depth of His love for us. This reminds us that faith isn’t always instantaneous. It grows and develops as we continually seek Jesus.

Then, Jesus asks His disciples a crucial question: “Who do you say that I am?” (Mark 8:29). Peter answers, “You are the Messiah.” This was the moment Peter fully recognized Jesus’ identity, though he did not yet understand the full scope of what that meant. It’s easy to say the right things, but truly understanding and living out that truth is the greater challenge.

Take Up Your Cross (Mark 8:31-9:1)

Jesus goes on to predict His death, and Peter rebukes Him, not understanding why the Messiah would suffer. Jesus responds sharply, “Get behind me, Satan! You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns” (Mark 8:33). This rebuke reminds us of how often we view life from a limited, earthly perspective, rather than from God’s eternal viewpoint.

Jesus then calls His followers to a radical discipleship: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Mark 8:34). Following Jesus isn’t about comfort or earthly success. It’s about sacrifice, surrender, and a willingness to lose one’s life for His sake. This is where Jesus asks the profound question, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Mark 8:36).

We often invest so much in temporary things—success, material possessions, human approval—yet Jesus reminds us that none of these are worth the value of our soul. Nothing in this world is more valuable than our relationship with God. Our soul’s worth is immeasurable, and it’s worth surrendering everything to follow Jesus.

The Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-13)

Six days later, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain where they witness His transfiguration. Jesus’ face shines like the sun, and His clothes become dazzling white. Moses and Elijah appear, representing the Law and the Prophets, and a voice from heaven says, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!” (Mark 9:7).

In this moment, the disciples catch a glimpse of Jesus’ divine glory, confirming His identity as the Son of God. The transfiguration emphasizes Jesus’ worth—He is not just a teacher or prophet; He is God’s beloved Son, the fulfillment of all God’s promises.

Peter, eager to memorialize the moment, suggests building shelters. But the glory of God is not something to capture or contain. It’s not a memory to hold onto but a living reality to experience in our everyday lives. Just as the disciples needed to listen to Jesus in that moment, we too are called to listen to Him in our lives, letting His Word guide us in all that we do.

Word of the Day: Worth

Worth speaks to the value of something, and today Jesus challenges us to consider the worth of our soul. In a world that constantly pressures us to chase after material success, Jesus asks us to pause and reflect: Is anything worth more than your soul?

Jesus’ miracles—healing the blind man, feeding thousands, and showing His glory in the transfiguration—demonstrate His deep care for our souls. Our souls are of such value to Him that He was willing to lay down His life for us. This is the ultimate demonstration of worth.

The Canaanite woman in today’s reading also demonstrates the worth of relentless faith. Her daughter’s healing came through her persistence, even when Jesus seemed indifferent at first. She understood that Jesus was her only hope, and she was willing to push through cultural boundaries to receive His mercy.

What Is Worth More?

Jesus’ question lingers: “What is worth more than your soul?” It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day demands of life—work, responsibilities, relationships. But we must remember that our soul is eternal, and the only thing worth living for is Jesus. He is the one who gives our soul its true value.

Are we like Peter, recognizing Jesus as the Messiah but still holding onto our limited view of life? Are we willing to surrender our lives, take up our cross, and follow Him? Or are we still chasing after things that, in the end, will not matter?

Let’s reflect on the worth of our soul today and how we can live in a way that honors the One who gave His life for us.

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October 13
Mark 9:14-29, Matthew 17:14-21, Luke 9:37-43, Mark 9:30-32, Matthew 17:22-23, Luke 9:43-45, Matthew 17:24-27, Mark 9:33-37, Matthew 18:1-6, Luke 9:46-48, Mark 9:38-41, Luke 9:49-50, Mark 9:42-50, Matthew 18:7-35

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