Christian Living

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Leave Where You Are
Mark 4:35 – 5:20

There are many reasons that we may be hesitant to step away from familiar surroundings. They could be any of the following:

a) I like it here.
b) This is where I want to be.
c) I am not sure what would happen if I moved from here.
d) I’ve done the same thing for years, why would God want me to change?
e) I can’t do what is being asked of me, so I’ll just keep doing what I know.

Sound familiar?

In the gospel of Mark, chapters 4 & 5, we read about Jesus leaving the familiar territory of His people and setting out to cross the Sea of Galilee. He and the disciples left in the evening, which was probably not the best navigational decision according to some experienced sailors. They encountered a storm, which caused much fear and doubt, as well as a good dose of discouragement about the whole event.

If we continue to read, no sooner had they reached the other shore when another turbulent episode erupted with the demoniac. After reading the two accounts, we would tend to think that the choices and consequences seemed to be too risky. Yet, right in the middle of it all, is the following verse:

“Then they came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gadarenes.” Mark 5:1 (NKJV). It was at this point that the Lord said to me, “Sometimes you need to leave where you are for the ministry to begin.”

What if Jesus had not stepped out in faith and crossed the sea to meet the man with a “Legion” of demons? Would he have ever been freed from the bondage he was in? What ministry opportunities are we missing because we are comfortable on the shore, wading in the water, lying on the sand, and soaking up the sun?

Many times the Lord will call us to move, in the face of opposition, to a place of ministry where He can show His authority over the physical (the sea) and the spiritual (the demons). But we must be willing to leave that which is comfortable and go where He leads.

Be Blessed!

Glen S.

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