Scripture Reading: Mark 3:7-19
We can hardly realize how wide the influence of Jesus was at this time. The multitude that followed Him came not only from Galilee, but also from Judea, from beyond the Jordan, and even from the Gentile cities of Tyre and Sidon and the country surrounding them. The throng was so great that Jesus with His disciples withdrew to the sea. He wished to do His work without interruption. Thus we have our Lord’s example for sometimes withdrawing from opposition. It was not lack of courage that led Him to do this. He knew that he conspiracy of His enemies would in the end be successful, yet He would not throw His life away. Nothing could be gained by His staying in their midst at this time. There was not testimony to be borne. Besides, His work was not yet finished. When, at last, His work was all done, the plots had all ripened, and He knew that the rulers were about to kill Him, He did not withdraw, nor did He show any fear or lack of bravery.
There are times when duty requires us to flee from danger and thus save our lives for further service. We are certainly never to court danger, nor to be reckless in our courage. On another occasion Jesus said to His disciples, “When they persecute you in this city, flee into the next.” Christian prudence is an important element in Christian courage. It often requires a higher courage to avoid danger than to rush into it; to flee away from angry enemies than to answer back and incite them to further wrath.
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