5 DAY DEVOTIONALS

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from 3/16 Sunday Morning Message.

Day 1: The Transforming Touch of Jesus                                    Reading: Mark 1:40-45

Devotional:

The story of Jesus healing the leper is a powerful illustration of God's love and our need for spiritual cleansing. Just as leprosy was seen as a symbol of sin, leaving one isolated and "unclean," our sin separates us from God. But Jesus, moved with compassion, reaches out and touches the untouchable. His words, "I am willing, be made clean," echo through the ages, speaking to each of us in our brokenness.

Reflect on areas in your life where you feel "unclean" or unworthy. Remember that Jesus is willing and able to cleanse you completely. His touch not only heals but transforms. How might your life change if you fully embraced the cleansing power of Christ? Consider how you can extend Christ's compassion to others who may feel isolated or rejected.

Day 2: Rising Early to Seek God                                                  Reading: Mark 1:35-39

Devotional:

Jesus, despite His busy ministry, prioritized time alone with the Father. Rising early, He sought solitude for prayer. This discipline fueled His ministry and kept Him aligned with God's will. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to neglect quiet time with God, but it's essential for our spiritual health and effectiveness.

Challenge yourself to create a "deserted place" in your daily routine for prayer and reflection. It might mean waking up earlier, turning off your phone, or finding a quiet spot during lunch. As you develop this habit, pay attention to how it impacts your perspective, decisions, and interactions with others. Remember, like Jesus, our ability to serve others flows from our connection with the Father.

Day 3: Faith That Moves Mountains                                               Reading: Mark 2:1-12

Devotional:

The story of the paralyzed man being lowered through the roof demonstrates extraordinary faith - both of the man and his friends. They believed so strongly in Jesus' power to heal that they overcame every obstacle. Jesus, seeing their faith, not only healed the man physically but also forgave his sins, addressing his deepest need.

Consider the "roofs" in your life - the barriers that seem to stand between you and Jesus. What would it look like to exercise radical faith in overcoming these obstacles? Reflect on areas where you need healing - physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Bring these before Jesus with the same determination as the paralyzed man and his friends. Also, think about how you can be like the friends, helping others encounter Jesus through your faith and actions.

Day 4: Called to Serve                                                                  Reading: Mark 1:29-31

Devotional:

After Jesus healed Simon's mother-in-law, she immediately began to serve. Her response illustrates a fundamental truth: when Jesus touches our lives, we are healed to serve. Our encounters with Christ should naturally flow into ministry to others.

Reflect on how you've experienced God's healing or blessing in your life. How are you using those experiences to serve others? Consider your unique gifts and experiences - even the painful ones - and how God might use them to bless others. Pray for opportunities to serve, and be attentive to the needs around you. Remember, service isn't just about big gestures; it often involves simple acts of kindness and availability.

Day 5: Proclaiming the Good News                                   Reading: Mark 1:14-15, 38-39

Devotional:

Jesus came with a clear purpose: to proclaim the good news of God's kingdom. He traveled from village to village, preaching this message of hope and calling people to repentance and faith. As followers of Christ, we are entrusted with this same mission.

Reflect on your understanding of the gospel. How would you explain the "good news" to someone who asked? Consider the spheres of influence in your life - family, workplace, community. How can you share the hope of Christ in these areas? It might be through words, acts of kindness, or simply living in a way that reflects God's love. Pray for boldness and wisdom in sharing your faith, and for God to open doors for meaningful conversations about the hope you have in Christ.