Part 1: Power in the Name

Mark 9:38-41 John said to Jesus, “Teacher, we saw someone using your name to cast out demons, but we told him to stop because he wasn’t in our group.” “Don’t stop him!” Jesus said. “No one who performs a miracle in my name will soon be able to speak evil of me. Anyone who is not against us is for us. If anyone gives you even a cup of water because you belong to the Messiah, I tell you the truth, that person will surely be rewarded.

Context: Jesus continues to move toward Jerusalem and in this passage we continue to see the disciples misunderstand who Jesus the Messiah is. They object to someone who is not "in our group." They object to the use of Jesus' name but Jesus is encouraged. In the ancient near eastern culture from which Judaism arose, and in the Egyptian culture in particular there was great magical power which could be unleashed when one knew how to use a “name.” The name that was the object of a blessing or prayer secured for the user many good things. In this case, demons were being cast by the power of Jesus’ name! While the disciples continue to see only their own self-centered and small world, Jesus had a larger worldview and continues to teach us about discipleship and service.

Going Deeper: What is in a name? Today people name their children after all sorts of people, places, and things … and sometime people just make up names. Today some people choose unique names and some people choose classic names. When Jesus was born, people often named their babies based upon the child's desired character or appearance, an incident of their birth or a hope of the parent. Jesus was named prophetically. Joseph was told by an angel in a dream to name the baby Jesus, "because he will save his people from their sins."

In this passage, it is as if the power of Jesus can no longer be contained. The disciples, in characteristic fashion want to hold back the power ... for themselves? Their motive is not clear. However, Jesus urges them to let it go. The Spirit moves where the Spirit moves and people are healed by the power of Jesus' name.

Pondering: Close your eyes and take a deep, cleansing breath ... Allow your experience of Jesus to emerge ... how does Jesus come to you? Who is Jesus? What name do you call? Is there a new name emerging that you might want to explore more deeply? Sit in silence for as long as is comfortable and then sit for 1 more minute.

Praying: Pray using names of Jesus that you know from Scripture or from your own experience. You may want to begin this way and continue with your own prayer for as long as you desire: Dear Jesus, you are God's anointed One, our Messiah and our deliverer. You are the good shepherd, caretaker of my soul. Bring peace into my life, dear Prince of peace. Guide me on the path of life for you are the Light of the world and I desire to follow you ... Amen.
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