Have you ever had a problem that you genuinely felt would never be solved—as in you had no hope that resolution would ever come? In Luke 8:40-56, two such situations occur. One involved a dead little girl and a woman with chronic bleeding which could not be cured by the medicine of the day. Yet, because of the complete faith that the girl's father and the woman had in Jesus' ability to solve their problems, His power was seen clearly as he healed the woman and raised the little girl from the dead.
40 When Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed Him, for they were all expecting Him. 41 Just then, a man named Jairus came. He was a leader of the synagogue. He fell down at Jesus' feet and pleaded with Him to come to his house, 42 because he had an only daughter about 12 years old, and she was at death's door.
There are a few significant things to note here. The crowds of people were expecting Jesus - they were not showing up to this location out of habit or social obligation. They wanted to meet God in the flesh. Also, Jairus knew that only Jesus could heal his daughter (who when he had left the house was still holding onto life). Do we truly trust to the depths of our souls that Jesus has the ability to solve any situation's difficulties?
Do we truly trust to the depths of our souls that Jesus has the ability to solve any situation's difficulties?
While He was going, the crowds were nearly crushing Him. 43 A woman suffering from bleeding for 12 years, who had spent all she had on doctors yet could not be healed by any, 44 approached from behind and touched the tassel of His robe. Instantly her bleeding stopped.
Jesus has the power to heal and restore: physically, relationally, in every sense in which restoration could ever be needed. Do we live and serve and lead like we believe this?
45 "Who touched Me?" Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, "Master, the crowds are hemming You in and pressing against You."46 "Someone did touch Me," said Jesus. "I know that power has gone out from Me." 47 When the woman saw that she was discovered, she came trembling and fell down before Him. In the presence of all the people, she declared the reason she had touched Him and how she was instantly cured. 48 "Daughter," He said to her, "your faith has made you well. Go in peace."
This woman, who after 12 years had to be losing hope that she would ever be healed, was completely convinced that merely touching the robe of the Lord would heal her. She risked much by doing this; the touching of a woman in her condition would have rendered Jesus as unclean, the woman risked the public exposure she eventually experienced (though Christ made it such that He was glorified and she was honored for her faith), and she had to physically get close enough to Jesus in the rowdy crowd. What risks are you willing to take for your faith? Are you willing to risk a relationship or your job because of what your faith tells you is right? Are you willing to risk embarrassment to seek Christ's healing in your life or ministry?
49 While He was still speaking, someone came from the synagogue leader's house, saying, "Your daughter is dead. Don't bother the Teacher anymore." 50 When Jesus heard it, He answered him, "Don't be afraid. Only believe, and she will be made well." 51 After He came to the house, He let no one enter with Him except Peter, John, James, and the child's father and mother. 52 Everyone was crying and mourning for her. But He said, "Stop crying, for she is not dead but asleep."
Jesus stopped to dialogue with the woman who had been bleeding even though the little girl's situation was dire. Are we willing to stop and have mercy upon those who are asking for our attention, or are we too busy? Jesus pursued the people that the Father brought across His path who were in need. Does this compassion characterize your ministry?
Are we willing to stop and have mercy upon those who are asking for our attention, or are we too busy?
53 They started laughing at Him, because they knew she was dead. 54 So He took her by the hand and called out, "Child, get up!" 55 Her spirit returned, and she got up at once. Then He gave orders that she be given something to eat. 56 Her parents were astounded, but He instructed them to tell no one what had happened.
Jesus is the restorer of all things broken, the healer of all things sick.
Jesus is the restorer of all things broken, the healer of all things sick. This little girl is but a small example of the healing power of Jesus; he came to restore all of creation. Is this the Jesus you worship on Sunday with your service, singing and leadership?
Tech Team Discussion Questions: 1-What are some situations that challenge our faith as a team? 2-What are some ways we can exhibit great faith to one another? 3-How can we encourage our church as a whole to exhibit great faith through our times of corporate worship?
