In Mark 3:6 an unlikely alliance formed between the religious leaders and the Herodians against Jesus. The latter were a politically motivated group who supported Herod and thus sympathized with Rome. Though strongly resistant to Roman rule, the religious leaders were furious at Jesus for healing on the Sabbath and joined forces with their opponents to kill him. He had exposed their motives and opposed their leadership. Their rejection of Jesus’ ministry and Messiahship combined with the political opportunism of the Herodians had lethal implications. In the end, Jesus was crucified in an attempt to terminate his influence. Though evil united to wield an enormous power, it ultimately yielded to the greater force of good. Without positional control or earthly authority, Jesus confronted and destroyed the source of evil’s power through his death and resurrection. The religious and political parties were thwarted by love and sacrifice.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

KEY QUESTIONS: Have I ever had forces of evil attempt to terminate my influence? Did I identify the power of evil behind those wielding it or did I misplace my attention and focus? How might I sacrifice or show love when encountering evil?