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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

[Peter’s] mother-in-law was in bed with a fever… So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.  Mark 1:30-31

Read: Mark 1:29-31
Listen: Mark 1

TODAY’S MESSAGE

We hardly need reminding of the sickness and death in this world during this time of COVID-19. When Jesus heals Peter’s mother-in-law, he’s giving a preview of the coming Kingdom where God will “wipe every tear from [our] eyes [and there] will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…” (Revelation 21:4).

Four actions we can box in our journals today are Jesus went to her, took her by the hand, helped her up and began to serve. When healed, Peter’s mother-in-law responds with gratitude and immediately serves Jesus. She has been “healed to serve” and be a part of this preview of God’s Kingdom.

Not only can Jesus heal physical sickness, but he heals our sin problem through his death on the cross in our place. When we choose to believe that, we are set free and—just like Peter’s mother-in-law—are  “healed to serve.”

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Make a list of your strengths and skills on page 21 of your journal. Then ask God to show you ways to use these gifts right now to preview God’s Kingdom and serve others. These could include giving a gift card to someone who’s laid off, bringing a meal to a family newly homeschooling or doing repairs for a neighbor. Write down how God inspires you and get going.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.