Mark 16:9-20
Peter’s statement at the beginning of Acts is a good summary of the gospel according to Mark. The apostle recalls "all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us (words characteristic of service) beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us" (Acts 1:21-22). The first picture in the gospel is when heaven opened upon the Lord Jesus at the Jordan and the last picture when the same heaven opens to receive Him. Between the two is His life of service and self-sacrifice. Approved of God, He occupies from henceforth the place of glory which is due to Him at the right hand of the Majesty on high. His work is completed. It is now up to the disciples to carry out their work by following the instructions of vv. 15-18 and the great Example which they have had before their eyes. But they are not left to their own resources. The Lord is seen on high as the One who directs the work of His own. Service is an eternal privilege which He undertakes in love. A servant for ever (Deuteronomy 15:17; Luke 12:37), He co-operates with His disciples and accompanies them with His power (v. 20; Acts 14:3; Hebrews 2:4). We, Christians, are called in our turn to follow His footsteps and to be witnesses of the same Gospel; we shall also be able to count on Him if we have in our hearts the desire to serve Him while we wait for Him.