Read: Mark 11:20–13:37

Devotional

Think about the last time you had an exhausting day—maybe it was yesterday! A day that ran from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., filled with work, kids, and nonstop conflict. Arguments with family, work disputes—it all wears you down. Welcome to Tuesday of Holy Week for Jesus—Contention City! Don’t think His only stressful moments were Gethsemane and Calvary. This day was packed with heated debates, all leading to the cross.

The theme of this Holy Tuesday: Near and Far from the Kingdom of God.

• Near: A teacher of the law (Mark 12:28-34), the delighted crowd (Mark 12:35-37), and Jesus’ disciples (Mark 13).

• Far: The chief priests, teachers of the law, elders, Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herodians.

Ponder: Am I near or far from the Kingdom? How do I draw closer?

The day’s discussions were crossroads for everyone. Will they follow and love Jesus, or reject and oppose Him? Which camp am I in?

Jesus taught on relevant topics: paying taxes, marriage at the resurrection, the greatest commandment, and signs of the end times. But let’s focus on the Parable of the Tenants (Mark 12:1-12).

• The Landowner is God.

• The Vineyard is Israel.

• The Tenants are religious leaders who failed.

• The Servants are prophets.

• The Murdered Son is Jesus.

This parable was about to unfold in real time. Jesus, quoting Psalm 118:22-23, declares Himself the Cornerstone.

Ponder: Is Jesus my Rock of salvation or a stone I stumble over? How does Tiring Tuesday deepen my love for Him?

Prayer: Lord, draw me closer. Help me love and appreciate You more deeply. Be the Cornerstone of my life. Amen.

Devotional Written by Pastor Don Krafft