Once the disciples follow Jesus, they repeatedly encounter him acting in unexpected ways in his ministry. Three arresting stories from Mark’s gospel demonstrate this surprise in different ways. In his interaction with Jairus’ daughter and the woman with the issue of blood, he demonstrates unconquerable holiness and patient compassion. As he passes them by on the Sea of Galilee, he demonstrates his glory. Finally, in his brash conversation with the Syrophoenician woman he invites faith and breaks stereotypes. Jesus will not be circumscribed into any comfortable picture and neither will he allow his disciples to follow him without challenge.