This book takes a fresh look at Mark's Gospel in order to help us see, hear and understand what Mark intended us to see, hear and understand prior to the use of his material by the other Gospel writers, Matthew and Luke. It assumes that Mark was writing within 10 years of the devastating and confusing events surrounding the crucifixion and that the key to interpreting it is in those stories, passages and verses that remain unique to Mark. It assumes Mark was a preacher proclaiming good news , but also a pastor honest enough to address the emptiness that both inspired and followed the work and life of Jesus of Nazareth. Mark was an evangelist using his familiarity with the Jewish writings, the Old Testament, to reflect on and relate the Jesus story: he is relevant to all those striving to maintain an alternative life-style and remain faithful to a caring way of life in the face of a hostile environment. All who have experienced 'vacation' within their vocation should find encouragement from Mark whose identity may not be as elusive as we have sometimes been led to believe. Mark, however, leaves us to take a step of faith; seeing, hearing and understanding is not a given, but stretches the mind, heart and even the pocket. IN THE SPIRIT OF MARK'S GOSPEL ANY ROYALTIES RECEIVED FROM THE SALE OF THIS BOOK WILL BE DONATED TO HUMANITARIAN ORGANISATIONS WORKING WITH THOSE SUFFERING OPPRESSION AND PERSECUTION TODAY.