Defiance: Defying Social Norms

As we conclude this journey through the Gospel of Mark, we arrive at both ending and beginning. This selected text includes a brief excerpt from the drama of Jesus’ arrest. But this isn’t where the story ends. When the world is at its darkest, the sun begins to rise. Just as Jesus has defied social norms throughout his life, he even defies death.

As we continue in the passion narrative in the Gospel of Mark, we come to a moment that is among the most holy in our Worship experience: the sacrament of Holy Communion

In this Sunday’s text, we learn that it’s not just the religious leaders who are frustrated about Jesus’ presence and teaching. As it turns out, there are even some in Jesus’ inner circle who become angry. But Jesus teaches that their priorities are – once again – off the mark.

The scripture for this Sunday is a bit broken up, and part of what we’re exploring is just a portion of a Biblical literary device known academically as a “Markan Frame.” Separating this out helps us to focus on what we might discern from this focused portion of the text.

This Sunday’s text is another familiar story. We read about a man who runs up to Jesus and kneels before him with a question about what is required for eternal life. Jesus responds to the urgent question with clarity, but then Jesus challenges him in a way that is unexpected…

This Sunday’s text is likely familiar. Most of us are familiar with the story of Jesus feeding 5000 people. But on a close reading, this one is different—and in fact is the second time in just a few chapters that Jesus feeds thousands!

Why would these religious leaders be criticizing people for the way they wash their hands? Is this simply about hygiene? Or is it something more?

As we continue from last week’s text, we find ourselves deep into questions of identity and awareness. Jesus has been healing and performing miracles, and in these stories word of Jesus continues to spread so that he is followed by large crowds. But when Jesus goes to his hometown, it is here that he is doubted.

In this Sunday’s text, Jesus invites the disciples to join him in crossing to the other side of the lake. In doing so, they find themselves in a storm so terrifying that even experienced fishermen fear that they’ll drown.

As we begin a series on the Gospel of Mark, we read that religious leaders began to critique Jesus very early in his ministry.