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READ: Mark 14:53-72
LISTEN: Mark 14

The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any. Mark 14:55

Mark wrote his gospel during a time when Christians faced growing persecution under Roman rule. As the political climate became increasingly hostile toward followers of Jesus, believers confronted a crucial question: What would they do when hauled before courts and authorities? In this pivotal passage, Mark presents two contrasting examples. Jesus stands before the Sanhedrin with unwavering courage and truthfulness, even when it costs him everything. Meanwhile, Peter follows “at a distance” and crumbles under questioning, denying his relationship with Jesus three times. These parallel trials reveal the challenge of discipleship when facing opposition.

We might not be dragged before a court, but we face similar choices daily. Will we follow Jesus closely or keep a safe distance? Our world remains skeptical, sometimes even hostile, toward Jesus followers. Each day presents opportunities to prioritize comfort and self-preservation or to embrace the demanding path of Jesus. Following Jesus means more than casual association—it requires the courage to deny ourselves, take up our crosses and follow him even when it’s difficult. The way of Jesus involves service, sacrifice and sometimes suffering, but it also leads to the truly abundant life he promised.

TODAY: Begin this week with a prayer of honesty: “Lord, too often I follow you from a distance when the path becomes demanding. As I reflect on these trials, help me see how I’ve chosen comfort over courage. Give me the strength to follow you more closely, not just when it’s convenient but especially when it’s costly. Prepare my heart to learn from both Jesus’s faithfulness and Peter’s failure. Amen.”