Responding in the Right Manner

Responding to the Lord in the right manner involves recognizing and honoring His presence. In Mark 14, we see two heart postures. One is marked by intimacy with God where we sense His nearness everywhere, and it stirs a deep longing to share Him with others. In these times distractions fade and His presence is central. The other posture seen in the disciple leaders of Mark 14:1 reflects a spiritual complacency. While not outright sinning, we may lose our sensitivity to His presence, when going through the motions of faith without the intimacy we once had. The key is to remain aware, responsive, and devoted to cultivating closeness with Him. That is the right response.

“After two days it was Passover and the feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take Him by trickery and put Him to death. But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar of the people”” Mark 14:1

In Mark 14, the woman anoints Jesus with expensive oil as an act of love and worship. Showing her deep understanding of His worth, unlike the disciples who criticized her and failed to see His true value.

Thin Places

I felt God’s presence while washing dishes, bringing tears of gratitude. When my husband arrived, I held back worrying about others’ opinions. Later, God gently corrected me asking, “When did others become more important than Me?” This moment taught me to value and honor God’s presence above all else.

In the 15th century when Christianity began to flourish in the British Isles, they had a belief that thin places existed. Certain moments or locations allow the boundary between the natural and the supernatural to feel transparent. These “Thin places” can occur anytime during worship, in conversations, or even while driving when we become deeply aware of God nearness. Yet, too often, we miss these moments due to fear, insecurity, or distraction.

Response Requires Awareness and Surrender

I was scared of what other people might think if my response is not like anyone else’s response. Its almost like I withheld from the Lord when He wants everything. Whether through raised hands, quiet tears, or joyful singing, what matters is offering our genuine worship. It emphasizes the unique “oil” each believer carries something only they can offer to the Lord.

It’s privilege to be children of God and having His presence with us in every moment. I challenge you to see Jesus as infinitely worthy of your full surrender, and to let your life reflect a heart captivated by His love. Worship becomes not just a Sunday activity, but a way of life, where every moment is an opportunity to honor the One who is worthy of it all – Jesus!

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