Today we focus on the Gospel, Mark 9:14–29, which includes the account of a father’s confession of faith while asking Jesus to cast the demon out of his son. Our devotional reading comes from Words of Promise: Daily Devotions through the Year.
Scripture Readings
Isaiah 50:4–10
Psalm 116:1–9
James 3:1–12
Mark 9:14–29
Devotional Reading
When the father of the demon-possessed boy says, “I believe,” he puts himself totally into Jesus’ hands. He trusts Jesus to put him in touch with His healing power.
You will go to church today with the words in your heart and mind: “I believe.” You will say it in many ways throughout the service. You will be entrusting yourself to Him who suffered, died, and was raised again for you. Many people will find it important to hear you make this confession.
When the father cries, “Help my unbelief,” he admits his faith is not what he wants it to be. He doesn’t come with perfect faith, and he asks Jesus to increase it, knowing that only Jesus can do that.
You will not take perfect faith to church with you, either. You will take questions, doubts, concerns, and some unbelief with you. Your going will be important, though, for there you will hear the Word that puts new flesh on old bones, receive the Sacrament, and have your faith strengthened by the confession of others while you share your words of faith to strengthen them.
Prayer
Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief. Amen.
Devotional reading and prayer are adapted from Words of Promise: Daily Devotions through the Year, page 201 © 1996 Concordia Publishing House. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
