The next section of Mark includes a couple of pieces that don't seem to go together. In fact, I spent a whole week trying to see the connection between these pieces. But I am sure that Mark is making a point. He is intentionally laying two stories (#47, #48 by the Life Application Bible's harmonious reckoning) beside each other to contrast them. The first unit actually does double duty and summarizes the chiasm (X) of 2:1-3:6. It is an echo of 1:35-39 and an expansion of 1:28. 

That all sounds very technical -- and it is. But I am convinced that structure of storytelling is important to meaning. These pieces emphasize that the way that you take in the woods (faith or hardness) has an impact on which group you are in -- are you an insider or an outsider? (Go back and review why being an insider is so important -- PS 119:57-64) 

AND we get to celebrate communion together. I have a unique idea of how to do that part of the service that just occurred to me this morning! (first cup) I can't wait for Sunday!

Blessings,

Pastor Mike Paris

Lead Pastor

First Baptist Church, Attica