Only believe!
Scripture reading for February 14: Mark 5
“Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” And He allowed no one to follow Him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. They came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and Jesus saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. And when He had entered, He said to them, “Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at Him. But He put them all outside and took the child’s father and mother and those who were with Him and went in where the child was. Taking her by the hand He said to her, “Talitha Cumi,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the girl got up and began walking . .” Mark 5:36-42
Jesus confronted all kinds of sickness, demon possession, and now even death of a twelve year old child. This child was the daughter of the synagogue ruler. This ruler had come to Jesus pleading for His healing intervention. On the way, Jesus was interrupted by a woman who touched His garment and was healed. Then a messenger from the synagogue ruler’s household came with word that the child had already died. Jesus firmly instructed the ruler not to be afraid but to believe. Jesus took with Him only His inner circle of disciples and upon arriving, found the usual wailing and grief. He tried quieting the crowd by telling them that the girl was only asleep. This brought derisive laughter. All were put out except mother, father, and the three trusted disciples.
Contrary to the sentiment of the crowd of mourners, Jesus’ world view saw restoration and healing in response to believing faith. Contrary to those who laughed, Jesus calmly took the child by the hand and commanded her to arise. Immediately, (a term loved by Mark!) the girl arose and began to walk! Great joy filled the house where moments before there was grief and mourning. With those who by faith believe, nothing is impossible! Seeing from Jesus’ perspective brings vision for resurrection from death!
Have you ever been confronted with a situation that looked hopeless even though you had asked Jesus for help? What did the battle inside between fear and faith feel like? Have you ever had to remove yourself from those around you that refuse to act in faith?
Prayer: Father God, forgive me for not always taking impossible situations to You and instead giving way to fear. Help me to be an encourager of faith and not a hindrance or a mocker. Let me walk with Jesus each day into impossible situations and see immediate victory in response to prayer and declaration! Amen.
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