Christians have always struggled with the balance between faith and rules. It might not be quite fair to say it that way. Perhaps you are more familiar with faith and works, as James so famously calls the debate in his New Testament book. This week as we begin a study in Mark’s Gospel, we are calling it “faith” and “proof.” We all at times want God to prove himself, or show us markers or signs. But which comes first? Faith first? Or proof first? That is our question for Sunday.