Jesus and his disciples came to the town of Capernaum and on the next Sabbath Jesus went to the synagogue and began to teach. The people who heard him were amazed at the way he taught, for he wasn’t like the teachers of the Law; instead, he taught with authority.

Just then a man with an evil spirit came into the synagogue and screamed, "What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Are you here to destroy us? I know who you are – you are God’s holy messenger!"

Jesus ordered the spirit, "Be quiet, and come out of the man!"

The evil spirit shook the man hard, gave a loud scream, and came out of him. The people were all so amazed that they started saying to one another, "What is this? Is it some kind of new teaching? This man has authority to give orders to the evil spirits, and they obey him!"

And so the news about Jesus spread quickly everywhere in the province of Galilee.

Mark 1:21-28

How do you feel on those hectic days when there are more tasks to do, than time to do them in? Do you ever wonder how Jesus got things done? He had so little time, and so many things to do. Consider a day in the life of Jesus. He prayed first. He visited the synagogue and he taught, and he taught with authority. He had to battle demon-possessed people. Each time he calmly cast the demons out. He had to deal with disciples and their families who did not understand what he was all about. He moved around constantly. People wanted Him to touch and heal them. Before sunrise the next morning, he would find a solitary place and He would pray. He sought the rejuvenating power of His Father’s presence. How do you handle a tough day? Get alone with God and seek His help. Start your day the way Jesus would – in prayer.

If you are too busy to pray to Jesus, you are too busy.

Our Daily Bread – November 6, 2002