Our Gospel lesson is Mark 1:29-39, taken today from the Christian Standard Bible (CSB).
As soon as they left the synagogue, they went into Simon and Andrew’s house with James and John. Simon’s mother-in-law was lying in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. So he went to her, took her by the hand, and raised her up. The fever left her, and she began to serve them. When evening came, after the sun had set, they brought to him all those who were sick and demon-possessed. The whole town was assembled at the door, and he healed many who were sick with various diseases and drove out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he got up, went out, and made his way to a deserted place; and there he was praying. Simon and his companions searched for him, and when they found him they said, “Everyone is looking for you.” And he said to them, “Let’s go on to the neighboring villages so that I may preach there too. This is why I have come.” He went into all of Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.
We hear that Simon Peter’s mother-in-law was ill and “they told him about her at once” (v. 30). Jesus knows everything that goes on, but He encourages us to bring those we love to His attention, specifically through prayer. Jesus wants to hear everything that troubles us, everything that excites us, all the things that happen in our lives.
Jesus cares deeply about all of God’s children, wanting us to share not just our joys and concerns but even the most mundane things. While He is our only Savior, Jesus wants to be our friend and brother, listening to whatever we have to say. When we pray for the good of others He blesses us as well.
We are called to be in contact with the Lord on a regular basis, to create a lasting connection. Our relationships are based on communication – if we don’t share with each other how can we know and care for each other? Call on the Lord through prayer every day to stay in touch and better know His love.
Gracious God, help us to be aware of our need to share and Your desire to hear from us. May our time of prayer bring us closer to You and all Your people. Amen.