Mark 1:35

Scripture:

Mark 1:35 “And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, He departed and went out to a desolate place, and there He prayed.” (ESV)

Observation:

Sometimes it's early morning, sometimes late at night, sometimes it’s in the boat fishing, and sometimes it’s riding a tractor. Today's verse shares where Jesus went to speak to His Father. I find myself taking moments, no matter where I am, to sit and talk with God, much like what Jesus did as He rose early in the morning. I thank God that it doesn't have to be a specific place, or a specific time or doing a specific thing. That's one of the blessings that we received when Jesus went to the Cross. The old ritual of the high priest going to God once a year to atone for the nation’s sin was forever broken. Suddenly, all mankind had direct access to the Father, through Jesus! It's almost like our cell phones. We can call anyone at anytime in almost any place. The key of course is making the call. So it's not where but when. Do you call God? He is always ready to listen!

Application:

• Personal Application: Continue spending time with the Lord daily. Sow righteousness and reap the fruit of God's unfailing love. 
• Family Devotional: Read this chapter to your family. Ask them if anything spoke to them as you read. Talk about their answers and show them that one important aspect of this chapter is that we must continue to spend time with the Lord and keep our hearts focused on His plans and purposes. Pray for them.

TOM SEMBER has been involved in ministering to men for over 20 years. He is an ordained minister with the AG in the NY Ministry Network. Tom lives with his wife, Carolyn, and children in New York. You can connect with Tom on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.