The Daily Devotional
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
The Unlikely Prophet
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” (Mark 1:14–15)
Introduction
When we imagine the launch of a movement that would change the world, we picture bright lights, large crowds, and a central stage. But Jesus doesn’t go to Jerusalem—the heart of religious and political influence. He begins in Galilee, far from the center of power, proclaiming the good news of God. Mark’s Gospel skips the backstory and brings us straight to the moment Jesus steps forward. From the very beginning, Jesus defied expectations, not with fanfare, but with quiet authority.
Reflection
Imagine this: A tech genius graduates from a prestigious university, but instead of heading to Silicon Valley or New York, they set up shop in a forgotten small town—maybe a dusty, out-of-the-way desert place like Deming, New Mexico. They start fixing broken laptops at the public library, teaching kids to code in a repurposed trailer, and helping neighbors get connected online. People might wonder: Why here? Why waste your potential in such an overlooked place?
That’s what Jesus did. He didn’t launch His ministry from Jerusalem’s temple or Rome’s halls of power. He walked through the hills and villages of Galilee—places much like Deming, where the dust clings to your sandals and folks know each other by name. He called fishermen, healed the sick, and shared meals with outcasts. His message wasn’t one of condemnation from above but compassion from alongside.
What surprises us most about Jesus may not be His miracles or even His resurrection—but His choice to live among the poor and the ordinary. In the margins, He brought the message of God’s Kingdom close enough to touch.
Application
Jesus didn’t wait for the perfect place or platform to begin His work—and neither should we. Are you waiting for the right opportunity to start sharing God's love? Look around. Your “Galilee” might be your neighborhood, a local diner, or even a quiet street in Deming. Someone near you needs to hear good news today. Begin where you are, with what you have. That’s how Jesus did it—and the world was never the same.
Conclusion
Jesus redefined leadership and ministry by showing up in unexpected places and loving unexpected people. He reminds us that God’s Kingdom doesn’t rise with applause but grows quietly in conversations, acts of kindness, and faithful presence. Great things begin in small places—because God is there.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You chose to begin Your ministry in quiet, humble places—among those overlooked by the world but never forgotten by You. Help me to follow Your example. Open my eyes to the people around me who are longing for good news. Give me the courage to serve faithfully, right where I am. Whether I live in a busy city or a dusty corner of the desert, may my life reflect Your Kingdom. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
No comments:
Post a Comment