The Way
A Long Day in Capernaum
From synagogue to doorstep, and prayer before dawn
Story
On the Sabbath, the voice of Jesus rang through the synagogue in Capernaum. The people were amazed at his teaching, because unlike the teachers of the law, he went straight to the heart, like one with authority. Just then a man possessed by an unclean spirit cried out. Jesus of Nazareth, have you come to destroy us? I know who you are. You are the Holy One of God.
Jesus rebuked him. Be silent, and come out of him. The unclean spirit shook the man violently, gave a loud cry, and left him. Leaving the synagogue, they went straight to the house of Simon and Andrew. Simon's mother-in-law was lying sick with a fever. Jesus went to her, took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and at once she got up and served them.
When the sun went down and the Sabbath was over, the whole town came crowding to the door, bringing the sick and those possessed by demons. Jesus laid his hands on each one and healed them. The next day, while it was still dark, he went out alone to a deserted place and prayed. Simon and his companions came after him and said, everyone is looking for you. Jesus answered. Let us go on to the other villages. I must proclaim the message there too.
Walk this scene on the map →His Words
Let us go on to the nearby towns. I must bring the message there too. This is what I came out to do.
Be silent, and come out of him.
Everyone is looking for you.
The sayings are fresh renderings of the original meaning in today's language. Text: Mt 8:14–17 · Mk 1:21–39 · Lk 4:31–44
Background
The white limestone synagogue standing in Capernaum today was built in the fourth or fifth century. The black basalt foundation beneath it is thought to be the remains of the synagogue of Jesus' day.
Pause and Reflect
In my busy days, am I missing the time I could spend with God?