People were overwhelmed with amazement. (Mark 7:37)
Life is busy and overwhelming. We move from one appointment to another only to be met with tasks that need attending when we get home—dishes to clean, clothes to fold, grass to mow, etc.
In the midst of our busy, overwhelming lives, we sometimes experience a different way of being overwhelmed. In the presence of a great musical or theatrical performance, we can be overwhelmed with amazement at the talent and skill of the performers. During a sporting event we can be in awe of the athletes involved. This experience of being overwhelmed with amazement or joy helps us endure the all too common experience of being overwhelmed by the pressures of daily life.
The people who witnessed Jesus perform his many miracles were often overwhelmed by the experience. Like standing in the presence of a great artist or an eloquent speaker, they marveled at the ability Jesus possessed. They must have wondered, “Who is this man?” They also must have thought that if he was able to make the deaf hear and the mute speak then he must have the power to do even greater things.
When you read the stories of Jesus, do you stand in awe of what he did? Do you believe that he can do the same in your life today?
Be overwhelmed with amazement instead of stress.
Mark A. Moore is an associate professor of theology at William Jessup University and the spiritual formation pastor at Faith Legacy [Wesleyan] Church in Sacramento.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
