And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven."
(Mark 2:1-5 ESV)

Mark is very explicit in pointing out that Jesus was there “preaching the word.”  Taking care of people’s needs was important, but preaching the word was priority in Jesus’ life and ministry.  The “word” that Jesus preached is defined in Mark 1:14-15 which reads “… Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel. (ESV)"

Needs being met attracted the crowds, but Jesus constantly brings attention back to the preaching of the Kingdom which is His priority.  Near the conclusion of chapter one Jesus tells His followers "Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out. (Mark 1:38 ESV)”

In the kingdom that Jesus is ruling over there is love, grace, peace and freedom with race, gender, health and economic equality for all.  That message must take priority over all else in our day.  Taking care of the needs of people is vital and is to be the result of preaching Christ and His Kingdom which must be priority.  Actions must follow words. The result will be a realization of the Kingdom and participation in it.

More to come tomorrow...  Your comments are encouraged!

Know that you are loved,
gaj