What Jesus Did! 'Jesus' Center' — Mark 8:31

Saturday, May 25, 2024

Then Jesus began to tell [the disciples] that the Son of Man must suffer many terrible things and be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but three days later he would rise from the dead.
— Mark 8:31 NLT

Key Thought

Jesus knew his mission. It was a hard mission: He was to die for the sins of the people — including even you and me — after being rejected and ridiculed. This sacrificial death, however, was his center. He proclaimed this center several times to his key followers, yet his disciples were not able to receive that teaching. It was beyond their grasp. (See the verses that follow. [1]) Jesus, however, did not deviate from his central purpose. He obeyed and pleased the Father no matter the cost. The challenge for you and me is the same — to obey the Father no matter the cost and to be willing to live our lives for him and perhaps even lay down our lives for him.

[1] Mark 8:32-38.

Today's Prayer

O dear Father in heaven, stir my heart and increase my courage so that I am truly willing to follow you no matter the cost. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Mark 10:42-45
  • Philippians 2:5-11
  • Mark 9:30-32

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 8:31 NLT — He would be killed, but three days later he would rise from the dead.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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