Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany - "The Model of Christ: Compassion, Service, Prayer, and Purpose"

The Ultimate Superstar

Oprah Winfrew began her career as a local news anchor and eventually transitioned into hosting a talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which became immensely popular. The show, which ran for 25 years, made Oprah a household name and one of the most influential personalities in the world.

Oprah's rise to fame allowed her to use her platform for philanthropy and advocacy. She founded the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa in 2007, providing educational opportunities for underprivileged girls. Oprah's personal life was positively influenced by her ability to use her wealth and influence to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Beyond her philanthropic efforts, Oprah has consistently used her influence to promote positive messages and discussions on her show. Her openness about her own struggles and challenges, including weight loss and personal growth, has resonated with millions of people around the world. Oprah's authenticity and vulnerability helped break down societal taboos and encouraged others to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery.

Oprah's popularity and impact have transcended borders and cultural boundaries, inspiring people globally to pursue their dreams, overcome obstacles, and contribute positively to their communities. Her "Oprah's Book Club" has also played a significant role in promoting literature and fostering a love of reading among a diverse audience.

Oprah Winfrey's increase in popularity not only positively influenced her personal life but also served as a source of inspiration and empowerment for individuals worldwide, encouraging them to strive for personal growth, contribute to their communities, and pursue positive change.

Oprah’s continued popularity is rare in the world we live in these days. Typically trends come and go, and celebrity fame is temporary. Eventually, Oprah’s influence will fad as well. Many musician’s live with this. A musician's rise in popularity can be temporary due to the ever-changing nature of the music industry, shifting tastes, and the constant emergence of new artists and genres. What captures the public's attention at a particular moment might not maintain its appeal as newer trends and sounds gain prominence.

A real example of this phenomenon is the rise and fall of the boy band craze in the late 1990s. One of the most prominent boy bands during this era was *NSYNC, featuring Justin Timberlake. Their album "No Strings Attached," released in 2000, was a massive success and marked the peak of their popularity.

However, as the 2000s progressed, musical tastes shifted, and the boy band phenomenon faded. Pop and R&B styles evolved, and a new wave of solo artists, hip-hop, and indie bands gained prominence. Justin Timberlake successfully transitioned into a solo career and maintained his influence, but the collective influence of *NSYNC as a boy band waned with the changing musical landscape.

This example illustrates how a musician's rise in popularity can be temporary, particularly when associated with a specific trend or genre that may fall out of favor. The next "big thing" often takes the spotlight, and artists who were once at the forefront may see their influence diminish as the industry and audience preferences evolve. Successful musicians often need to adapt to changing trends, reinvent their sound, or explore new creative directions to sustain long-term relevance.

In today’s scripture reading we find ourselves in the midst of Jesus’ rise to fame. In Mark 1:29-39, where we witness the compassionate ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Mark 1:29–31 “As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.”

Leaving the synagogue, Jesus enters the home of two disciples, Simon and Andrew. Here, we see Jesus' compassion in action as He heals Simon's wife's mother who was sick with a fever. (I won’t say mention any mother-in-law moments here!) Jesus demonstrates unwavering compassion, whether in a crowded synagogue or a quiet home. His healing touch reflects tenderness and sympathy.

And Simon’s mother-in-lawy’s response is immediate: she immediately begins to serve others.

Mark 1:32–34 “That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.”

As the day draws to a close, Jesus' work continues. He heals many who are sick and demon-possessed. Jesus popularity is growing. In our 21st century world we tend to gather in the evenings for concerts, sporting events, family get togethers. And here we find everyone being drawn towards Jesus. Everyone wants to witness the Jesus phenomenon. The healings, the messages, the miracles. Despite the late hour when people would normally retire, Jesus receives all who come to Him, showcasing His accessibility. The people react naturally to the news of a true healer. Jesus heals all who come to Him, highlighting His unparalleled success. This challenges us to consider our own expectations and faith in the healing power of Christ.

Mark 1:35 “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.”

Even after a long day of teaching and healing, Jesus rises early the next morning to pray in solitude. Jesus, the Son of God, consistently prioritizes prayer. If He needed to pray, how much more do we need to make prayer a central part of our lives? Jesus seeks quiet places to pray, emphasizing the importance of finding solitude in our busy lives to commune with God.

Mark 1:36–39 “Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!” Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.”

Lastly, we observe that Jesus remains true to His purpose. He proclaims the coming kingdom of God, and His focus is on preaching rather than performing miracles. Jesus' primary purpose is to preach, and healing serves as a confirmation of His authority. Our focus, too, should be on the message of Christ rather than mere signs and wonders.

Jesus preaches and then moves on to the next town, emphasizing the urgency of sharing the gospel with those who haven't heard. This challenges us to consider the effectiveness of our own evangelistic efforts.

Conclusion

Jesus Christ is the ultimate superstar. As we recognize Jesus as our personal lord and savior remember these things: His popularity will never cease; His message will never fade; His healings will always make us whole; His home in heaven is open for us for the ultimate eternal worship concert.

In the short time Jesus spent at Simon and Andrew's home, He revealed Himself as a man of compassion, service, prayer, and purpose. As disciples of Jesus, may we strive to embody these qualities in our lives:

Compassion toward those who are sick.

Willingness to serve others with the abilities and blessings we've received.

Dedication to prayer, finding time and a quiet place to commune with our Heavenly Father.

A sense of purpose, especially in fulfilling the Great Commission to spread the gospel of Christ to all.

May the Holy Spirit empower us to follow the example of our Lord Jesus Christ and manifest His compassionate ministry in our daily lives. Amen.

Call to Worship (based on Psalm 147:1-11;20c)

Leader: "Praise the Lord! It is good to sing praises to our God."

People: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

Leader: "Great is our Lord, and abundant in power."

People: "He lifts up the downtrodden and nourishes the earth."

Leader: "The Lord delights not in the strength of the horse, nor in human might."

People: "But in those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love."

Leader: "Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion!"

People: "For He strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses your children."

All: "Together, let us worship the Lord, whose love and power are our everlasting comfort and strength."

Opening Prayer (based on Isaiah 40:21-41)

Let us pray.

Eternal and Almighty God, Creator of the ends of the earth, we come before You with hearts full of awe and gratitude. As the prophet Isaiah reminds us, You are the everlasting God, the Creator of the whole earth, who never grows tired or weary.

Lord, Your understanding is unsearchable. You give power to the faint and strengthen the powerless. As we gather here today, we confess that often we grow weary; our strength fails us, and our spirits become faint. In these moments, we are reminded of our need for You, our unfailing source of strength.

We lift our eyes to You, the One who sits above the circle of the earth, and we are humbled by Your majesty and power. In Your presence, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, and the rulers of the earth are as nothing. Yet, You know each of us intimately, caring for us with a Father's love.

We thank You, Lord, for the promise that those who wait for You shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Teach us to wait upon You, to trust in Your timing and Your perfect plan.

In this time of worship, renew our strength, O Lord. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may soar on wings like eagles, serving You with joy and perseverance. May our worship be pleasing in Your sight, and may our hearts be open to the teaching of Your Word.

We pray for those among us who are weary, burdened, or facing trials. May they feel Your presence and find their strength renewed. Help us to support and care for one another, being Your hands and feet in this world.

Lord, guide us in all that we do, that we might glorify Your name and be witnesses of Your love and power. We ask all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

Amen.