Allowing the Spirit to prep us for His work
Mark wrote a Gospel about the life and ministry of Jesus for a Gentile audience. He described how Jesus arrived at the outskirts of Jerusalem and was greeted with great fanfare. He entered the city (probably late) and went into the temple. It was empty due to the late hour.
Mark wanted to show that this wasn't Jesus' first time here. He wasn't looking around like a tourist. Instead, He was probably taking in the scene, planning for tomorrow's confrontation.[1] Jesus likely prayed for guidance and strength to do what was necessary and controversial and would seal His fate for the cross.
Sometimes, we will be led to do things spontaneously by the Holy Spirit. Other times, we will require preparation, especially for large tasks that the Spirit has told us to accomplish. Regardless of how small or large the task, it is prudent to ask The Lord for guidance and strengthening. We then have to take the steps forward in faith. While we might not be turning over tables at the Temple, it matters to God that we do what He has assigned us. Prayer and communion should set the agenda and pace for our lives.
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[1]William L. Lane, The Gospel of Mark, The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 1974), 398.
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