Reading Diary A Week 3: The Gospel of Mark

For the first reading diary of the week, I chose the Gospel of Mark. I went to a private Christian school from kindergarten till graduation, so I'm very familiar with the stories. I haven't read through them since then, however, so I chose it as a refresher to see if my opinions on it have changed since I last read through it back in high school. Although I've somewhat grown from religion (personal choice), I firmly believe Jesus is one historical figure people should model themselves after. Whether you believe the stories are true or not, the lessons taught are something we can all take to heart. Here are my thoughts on some of the most well-known stories in the world.

Jesus and the Pharisees was always one I thought was interesting. The way they attempt to trick him to no avail shows probably more than other story how wise Jesus was. Many people fall victim to people who wish ill will on them, but Jesus saw through the Pharisees' tricks and gave them an answer they could not respond to.

Jesus talks with the Pharisees by Ernst Zimmerman

The Parables of Jesus are teaching points with such great messages. The Sower is something all Christians attempt to live their lives by. Jesus states the sower spreads the seed in four different places: the rocks, the road, the thorns and the good soil. Some would be like the seed sown in the rocks, quick to sprout, but quick to wither. Many people associate this with the "church camp high," or the feeling of being so connected to God for a short period of time, only to return to their old ways a few weeks after. 

But Jesus said only some would be like the good seed and truly accept the word of God. Their hearts accept the word and it grows inside, yielding more than the original seed had planted. 

In this section, Jesus also calms the water of the sea to ease the fears of his disciples. This is one of his most famous stories, and one that's taught to every child in every bible class around the world. 

Finally, I always found the story of John the Baptist interesting because of the way he's depicted as being clothed in camel's hair and with a loincloth, eating locusts and wild honey. He's described as what most people would think to be a savage, but the Holy Spirit blesses him. I think this story is the basis for the idea that anyone can be a Son of God, so long as you do God's will. 

But these are my thoughts about the first half of the unit, from someone who's grown up with these stories. Any thoughts or comments are surely welcomed!