7 day plan

Finding the Real Jesus

Day 5 of 7

NIV

Mark 5:35–42

While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?” Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him and went in where the child was. He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. Mark 5:35–42 NIV

Reflection: Lord over death

The compassion Jesus has for people is difficult to miss. While announcing the coming of the Kingdom of God is his major concern, he continues to bring merciful relief to suffering people such as the demon-possessed man (5:1-20), the woman who had experienced 12 years of bleeding (5:25-35), and here, Jairus who had lost his daughter. Crowds come to him and he does not deny them his healing hand. These miracles speak of the power of God in Jesus, and that he is Lord over all things, even over death itself.

Jesus shows at important moments recounted here, that faith in him can drive out fear. ‘Why are you so afraid?’ he says to the disciples who fear drowning in a boat in a storm; ‘Don’t be afraid just believe,’ he tells Jairus.

Jesus’ words are a powerful weapon against sickness, death and heartbreak. All of these healings point towards an even greater reality in the redemptive work he completes on the cross.

What aspects of your life and the world around you do you most feel the need of God’s redemptive power?

Prayer:

Jesus, Lord of all things, please help me to trust you with all of my life. Please drive out fear so that I can live a full life in service of you and other people. Amen.

Days

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7