SOAP: salt & peace

S - Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another. — Mark 9:50 (ESV)

O - The disciples were taken aback by someone else using Jesus' name. He wasn't 'in' with the group. Jesus takes this opportunity to teach the disciples that those who use his name are not 'out' like they think. He then compares them to little children and warns that the disciples should not hinder them from growing in faith. Instead he exhorts them to be salt towards them... Preserving what is good, flavoring with true life, & remembering God's faithfulness. He exhorts them to be at peace towards them.

A - As I think about my struggles with 'church' and 'Christians' this is a good reminder. Those who profess Christ in word and deed are 'with me.' We are to work for peace, a deep sense of well being, between one another. And we are to preserve each others' holiness, remind one another of God's faithfulness, and spice up each others' life with the gospel.

P - Lord, help me not to slip into an 'us and them' mentality. Give me a generous spirit towards those who profess your name. Allowing them to be salt in my life and seeking peace together under your gracious reign.

S2 - Jesus said to him,“If you can! All things are possible for one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” — Mark 9:23-24 (ESV)

P2 - All things are possible. I don't live this way. May the cry of my heart be, "I believe Lord! Help my unbelief!"