…through Reading the Gospel of Mark
No person has been the topic of more discussion than Jesus. For over two thousand years we have struggled to understand who he was and what his teachings mean. To the sick, he was a healer. To the sinner, he was a second chance. To the searching, he was the answer to God’s promise. Over the next several weeks you will have an opportunity to meet Jesus… for the first time or meet him again as if it were your first time.
SOAP Method for your Bible Reading
SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. It is a way to listen for God’s Word as you read from the Bible. Find a quiet time and place to read, preferably the same time each day. You may want a notebook to record your thoughts and the message you find in the Scripture.
S Read the scripture. Don’t just skim through it, but really think about what it means. Look for one idea, word, phrase, or verse that stands out. Underline that.
O Read the study notes related to each verse and any “sidebar” article that is provided. Write down any observations about the scripture. Think about what God has to say to you through these verses.
A Write down how this Bible passage applies to your life. Do you see a similar situation in your life right now? How can you respond the way Jesus taught?
P Write or say a prayer. This is a personal message from you to God, so don’t worry about getting the perfect words — just make it honest and heartfelt. Remember, God always listens and already knows your needs.
Rest for a few minutes and enjoy the presence of the Holy Spirit.
A Prayer for Today
Lord God, awaken in me a passion for your living and active Word. Forgive me for not reading the Bible to hear your voice, and for those times I’ve read it and not paid attention. Open my heart and mind to what I am reading. Teach me to recognize your voice, to notice your actions around me, and to join with your work in the world. I want to follow you. Amen.
40-Day Reading Guide for the Gospel of Mark
We invite you to join in reading together as we allow the words of scripture to come alive in our lives.
Week 1:
Day 1 – Mark 1:1-20
Day 2 – Mark 1:21-39
Day 3 – Mark 1:40-2:12
Day 4 – Mark 2:13-28
Day 5 – Mark 3:1-19
Day 6 – Mark 3:20-35
Week 2:
Day 7 – Mark 4:1-20
Day 8 – Mark 4:21-34
Day 9 – Mark 4:35-5:20
Day 10 – Mark 5:21-34
Day 11 – Mark 5:35-6:6
Day 12 – Mark 6:7-29
Week 3:
Day 13 – Mark 6:30-44
Day 14 – Mark 6:45-56
Day 15 – Mark 7:1-23
Day 16 – Mark 7:24-37
Day 17 – Mark 8:1-21
Day 18 – Mark 8:22-33
Week 4:
Day 19 – Mark 8:34-9:13
Day 20 – Mark 9:14-29
Day 21 – Mark 9:30-37
Day 22 – Mark 9:38-50
Day 23 – Mark 10:1-16
Day 24 – Mark 10:17-31
Week 5:
Day 25 – Mark 10:32-45
Day 26 – Mark 11:1-25
Day 27 – Mark 11:27-12:12
Day 28 – Mark 12:13-34
Day 29 – Mark 12:35-44
Day 30 – Mark 13:1-20
Week 6:
Day 31 – Mark 13:21-37
Day 32 – Mark 14:1-26
Day 33 – Mark 14:27-42
Day 34 – Mark 14:43-65
Day 35 – Mark 14:66-15:15
Day 36 – Mark 15:16-39
Week 7:
Day 37 – Mark 15:40-47
Day 38 – Mark 16:1-8
Day 39 – Mark 16:9-14
Day 40 – Mark 16:15-20
Grow Pray Study (GPS) Daily Devotional
The GPS is a daily devotional that includes reflections on these scripture readings and a prayer. To receive the daily GPS in your email, contact the church office at office@messiahchurch.org and put “GPS” in the subject line. It can also be found online or a printed copy is available weekly on the wall across from the library near the front doors of the church.
Join a Faith Group
Lent is a great time to join a Faith Group! These small groups provide a place for each of us to build relationships with a few people who will help us grow and mature as believers in God. Contact Heather Felt for how to get started.
