Sorry for the time off between posts. I took a couple of days with the family for a homeschool adventure. Here's a picture from our trip.
Today I'd like to discuss a very moving story in the Bible. The story of Jairus in the Gospels rips me apart every time I read it.
Jairus is a leader of the local synagogue, likely at Capernaum. His only daughter is dying. He was waiting for Jesus to return in time to possibly help and his hope is realized as Jesus passes through again.
In Mark 5:22-23 Jairus falls at the feet of Jesus. The greek word used is Pipto which translates "falling down, throw oneself to the ground" as a sign of devotion. Jesus was his last resort.
This very prominent synagogue leader has humbled himself before the very simply attired Jesus.
No one is above Christ. No one has enough money or power to go beyond the need for Jesus.
In Mark 5:23 Jairus says, "My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live."
The story goes on from there and eventually the daughter of Jairus dies. But Jesus says she is simply asleep and in verse 42 Jesus commands the girl to "...arise" and she does.
But I'd like to go back and look at a directive from Jesus:
..."Do not be afraid any longer, only believe." Mark 5:36
Jairus was freaking out. He had been waiting for Jesus to pass through and upon seeing him with the multitude he makes a b-line for Jesus. He needs Jesus to act fast, but Jesus does not. Jesus gets distracted (from Jairus' point of view) with a women who has touched his garment and been healed.
Have you ever been Jairus? Desperate? Worried sick? Exhausted all of your options?
How we handle these situations says a lot about our faith. It says a lot about the development of our faith. Would you be able to stand on the Rock today?
Here are a few verses to consider:
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. Colossians 3:15a
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:18-19
I've been where Jairus stood. It was painful and I'm sure I did not handle it the way I would have liked. I did ask "why" and I did have fear. But God stretched me in ways I could never have done. My faith grew and saw the hand of God at work.
Thank you Lord for not leaving us on our own. But through trials You move us towards You. I'm ripped apart Lord and cling to You for life. May I "...just believe."
