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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

In Galilee these women had followed him and cared for his needs. Mark 15:41

Read: Mark 15:40-41
Listen: Mark 15

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Mark’s account scans the crowd of people gathered during Jesus’s last moments. There’s a group of women faithfully watching from a distance. They overhear the soldiers gambling for Jesus’s clothes. They perceive the agony in his voice as he calls out to God and declares that his work is finished. These women had followed Jesus and supported his ministry. They kept showing up and were there for him. They were present at his death, they show up again at his burial and they also return to the tomb.

Mark’s words are a powerful reminder to us of the value of presence. Our presence can be life-giving in a difficult season. Our presence is often the tangible expression of God’s love when someone is overwhelmed with sorrow or uncertainty. When Christians provide each other the gift of presence, it’s a reminder of the never-ending presence of God. Sometimes it’s not easy to give our presence to someone. Showing up can be inconvenient and has a cost. But our presence allows God the opportunity to work through us.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Remind yourself that sometimes the most important thing you can do is show up. It isn’t that you have to say the right thing or bring the perfect snack. Ask God to help you recognize where and when you need to be present in the weeks ahead. Ask him to give you the strength to step into those spaces.

2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE

Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse! View previous verses at beyondtheweekend.org/biblememorypractice.

ROMANS 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.