Mark 5:1 They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. 2 When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him.

If you read Mark 5 in its completion you will see the amazing encounter where Jesus sets a man completely free. Jesus went way out of His way to touch this one man. He delivered Him, got back in the boat, and left. He took a lot of time, spent a lot of energy, and endured a bit of ridicule just to reach one person. In reality, this is just a snapshot of what Jesus did for each of us. He left the greatness of heaven and came to earth to rescue you and me. His coming for you was not convenient. It was not without cost and it was not contingent on a guaranteed response. He went out of His way because He loves you.

Knowing Jesus went out of His way for you, how far out of your way should you be willing to go to touch the lives of others? Mark 5 suggests to me a few times when I should go out of my way.

• I should go out of my way every time I hear the voice of God tell me to do so. These disciples went out of their way because Jesus told them to go even though they did not know the purpose of the journey. Obeying God will often seem out of the way.
• I should go out of my way even when it is inconvenient. A lot of powerful ministry for Christ occurs in the moments you already had other plans established.
• I should go out of my way even when it seems costly to do so. You cannot allow a process that seems too expensive to deter you from engaging in what God calls priceless.
• I should go out of my way no matter how the person responds. God does not hold us accountable for people’s responses. He only demands we be faithful with opportunities He provides.

Today’s Challenge: Reflect on how Jesus went out of His way to reach you. Prayerfully consider how Jesus may desire for you to go out of your way to reach someone else.