Scripture:  Mark 1: 29-39

Sermon:  “When We Are Lifted Up”

Sermon Theme:  In a deserted place, after praying and searching for an answer, Jesus made a decision that would alter the world.  He realized his true calling was not healing, but proclamation.  Jesus still healed and cast out demons, but he knew that these actions were secondary to the power of the word.  Even more amazing is the fact that we too are given the power of proclamation.  We are lifted up by God and called to share the good news of Christ with the world and the wonderful thing is this gift does not just affect one person; it is not used up in a flash of light or a puff of smoke.  Rather it gains power as it is shared and as our faith grows.