MARK 1:15

“The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”

TO PONDER

I do very little reading for pleasure as I just can’t seem to find the time in a busy life, but I look forward to leisure reading in my retirement. Interestingly, the sporadic leisurely reading I have done over the years has primarily been non-fiction as the ‘realness’ of a true story or an autobiography always seems to interest me most. Though perhaps even more interestingly, one book that seriously left a lasting impression for me was (by ordained Lutheran Minister) Dr Mark Worthing’s ‘Iscariot’; a fiction based biblical story that portrays a very different perspective on Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed Jesus and handed him over to the authorities. Whilst the stories conclusion, and the intriguing perspective on Judas is labelled as fiction, the other characters portrayed in the book, the places, the events and the timelines are essentially non-fiction as they wonderfully depict what we read in the Holy Bible and other available historical records. 'Iscariot' is so thoroughly researched and well written that it raises a serious question: whether Judas’ thinking and his perceived understanding of his calling helped shape the actions that led to his final betrayal of Jesus. The book certainly asks many questions and prompted me to think deeply, as I’m sure it has for many readers.

So, my reading preference is a real-live story. Perhaps why the Bible has a daily priority for me woven in and around my regular devotion. The gospel is indeed a living word. Just as in Hebrews 8: 13 which tells us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever”, Gods word through the gospel is the same yesterday, today and forever. His words are real, alive and living for us today. 

Mark 1 verse 15 is evidence of God’s word being alive, real and living for us today. There is no fiction about it!  God’s time being fulfilled is reference to the Kairos (the right and opportune moment) and not just chronological time. The promises and prophecies of Old Testament times (yesterday) have been realised with Jesus’ arrival, and He remains living with us daily (today) through the Holy Spirit, His gospel, and then through the promise that awaits all who repent and believe [a place that He has prepared for each and every one of us in His eternal Heavenly home (John 14 :2)](forever).  

This indeed, is good news for all believers. Not only for the future, but for today, in every moment.

PRAYER: Ever present Lord. I praise You for the sacrifice of Your one and only son for me and for the Holy Spirit who remains living in me. Sorry for the times when I do not actively live Your word or I harden my heart toward You. Thank You for the good news for me and all believers who have repented. Not only the good news of what's to come, but the good news of Your word right now, today, in every moment.  Amen         

Today's devotion written by Shane Burdack, LifeWay Epping.