Mark 9:30 - 50

Jesus instructs His followers about the seriousness of sin and the secret to true greatness.  Sin should be taken so seriously that if permanently maiming oneself would be an effective means of curtailing sin it should be done.  Jesus' other teachings highlight the fact, however, that it is the heart of man that causes sin not an eye or foot.

One phrase caught my attention as I read.  It's found in verse 32, after Jesus begins to tell His followers about the necessity of His betrayal and death.  "...they did not understand this saying, and were afraid to ask Him."  What a brief yet telling look into the minds and attitudes of those who closely followed the Lord Jesus!  They were in the very physical presence of the One Who could explain for them in great detail what was true about the situation they faced, yet they refused because they were afraid to admit their own ignorance.  Ignorance, pride and fear are a dangerous combination.  How often they creep into my own life, and maybe even yours.  What are you afraid to ask the Lord to explain?  In what area are you fearful to ask for direction?