SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE
Mark 4:33-34 A Scripture devotional can be so powerful, but where do we begin? Getting started reading the Bible is tricky… so we’ve compiled verse reflections like this one with a Bible verse for today to help us connect with God in everyday moments.
Growing Patience with Others
“Why?” Anyone who spends time with kiddos can relate to this being one of the worst three letter words!!
Sometimes, it’s the small stuff that really tests our patience. Check out Sarah’s reflection on Mark 4, and what she’s learning from Jesus about growing patience with others.
Mark 4:33-34 MSG
“With many stories like these, he presented his message to them, fitting the stories to their experience and maturity. He was never without a story when he spoke. When he was alone with his disciples, he went over everything, sorting out the tangles, untying the knots.”
Written by Sarah J Callen
Have you ever tried to untangle a strand of Christmas lights? It’s one of the most frustrating exercises and, no matter how gingerly you return the lights to the box, they still manage to get tangled again.
An unruly string of lights reminds me just how impatient I can be. Patience can be difficult because people don’t always do what we want them to do when we want them to do it. And while I might be more willing to extend patience to the random stranger, being patient with those closest to me can be a challenge. Still, patience is the way of Jesus.
During his ministry, Jesus was patient with those he encountered, including (and especially) the disciples. In Mark 4, Jesus taught in parables, but the disciples didn’t understand their meaning. I love how The Message explains Jesus’ response.
“When he was alone with his disciples, he went over everything, sorting out the tangles, untying the knots.” Mark 4:34 (MSG)
Untangling knots requires immense patience; if you try and rush it, you end up with an even bigger mess. What a beautiful visual of how Jesus loved his friends!
Why It Matters
Jesus is just as patient with us today as he was with his disciples. We can bring questions and problems to him; we don’t have to have everything figured out or be in a rush in his presence. And we have the privilege to do the same with the people in our lives. We can follow in the steps of Jesus and untangle questions and concerns with those we love, even if it takes a little while.
Searching for another Bible verse with reflection? We have more simple devotions to connect with God in the ordinary, extraordinary, and everyday moment of life. Click here to check them out!
