give him the key to the city
"Before long the whole town was gathered outside the door." —Mark 1:33
Bethsaida was like most towns. Many of its people "through fear of death had been slaves their whole life long" (Heb 2:15). Of course, there were many "who were variously afflicted" (Mk 1:34), including Simon's mother-in-law who "lay ill with a fever" (Mk 1:30). Also, demons had oppressed the people of Bethsaida for as long as anyone could remember (see Mk 1:34).
However, this day was going to be different. Jesus came to town and demons, sickness, and fear left town. This was the best day in Bethsaida's history.
Jesus got up very early the next morning. His Father told Him not to stay at Bethsaida but to "move on to the neighboring villages" and "proclaim the good news there also" (Mk 1:38).
Jesus is willing to come to your town. Will you give Him the "key to the city" and the key to your heart? Let Jesus be Lord of your life and your town.
Prayer: Father, I will let You have Your way.
Promise: "Rising early the next morning, He went off to a lonely place in the desert; there He was absorbed in prayer." —Mk 1:35
Praise: A local church gave witness to Jesus as members processed together praying the rosary walking from one end of town to the other in a pro-life march.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Spiritual Blindness, on audio AV 65-1 or video V-65.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 30, 2014
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