7th January 2012 Matthew 4:12-17, 23-end

Jesus Begins to Preach
[12] When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee. [13] Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— [14] to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah:  [15] “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— [16] the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”  [17] From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” 
 
Jesus Heals the Sick
[23] Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. [24] News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed, and he healed them. [25] Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.

I'm struck by the immensity of Jesus' journeying and ministry this morning; he went from almost nothing to preaching to huge crowds and healing the sick of all forms. 

Today I'm hearing "feel the fear but do it anyway; just go ahead and do my work".

Jesus you have inspired me today to go out and share your word and do your work; give me the skills and courage to follow through.  Amen.