This week in our Mark sermon series, we looked at Mark 2:18-28. The sermon was entitled longing for and resting in Jesus. In the passage, Jesus receives questions about fasting and sabbath rest. Jesus' disciples were not fasting like the religious leaders or John's disciples because they understood that Jesus' presence was a reason for celebration and feasting, not fasting. Jesus was the long-awaited groom and king that the Old Testament predicted. In His presence, we feast; in his absence, we fast. Jesus knew there would be a time soon that he would ascend, and His presence wouldn't be with the disciples physically but spiritually through the Holy Spirit. We now feast and fast along with the disciples, enjoying the presence of the Holy Spirit yet, waiting for Jesus' second coming when he fully establishes His kingdom.

In the second part of this passage, the religious leaders question Jesus and his disciples for working on the Sabbath instead of following the law. Jesus responds to them by demonstrating that they have missed the point of the law. The law shows us our need for Jesus. The religious leaders have the lawmaker and fulfillment of the law in Jesus with them and yet don't see or acknowledge their need for him.

Resources:

• Habits of Grace (ch. 10) - David Mathis

• A Hunger for God - John Piper

Reflection Questions:

• Do you see Jesus for who He is?

• Do you see yourself for who you are?