Jesus doesn’t even have to know or be present to heal! We shouldn’t be surprised by that, but instead our faith should be exploding. These two accounts are perfect examples of God’s healing power at work in response to faith. Is our faith as bold?
These two individuals are quite different in their stories and their afflictions. Yet both knew that Jesus was the answer. Is there something you’re struggling with that Jesus can help you overcome? Tap into your faith and claim your own healing or restoration.
When we look at Jairus, what do we see? A desperate father fearing for the life of his daughter, but he was also a religious leader in the community. Do you think he was familiar with the fact that many other religious leaders saw Jesus as a threat? Yet, he boldly asked for help, and Jesus told him to “just have faith.” Imagine Jesus whispering that in our ear, too.
Peter, James, and John got a front row seat that day to observe a miraculous healing. Again, Jesus cautioned his disciples to keep this to themselves. Jesus had raised this little girl from the dead, and that was a miracle Jesus was not ready to make public this early in his ministry. Much more realistic was to say that they had been mistaken, the child was merely asleep. Can you imagine being in the disciples’ shoes that day! What an honor to be part of that happy ending.
I can’t imagine what it would have been like to bleed for twelve years. Once a month was bad enough. To have any affliction for twelve years would zap your energy and zeal for life. This poor woman was so confident in Jesus’ healing power that she only grasped at the fringe of his robe.
In a crowd of people, this woman could have remained unseen was it not for the healing power Jesus felt leave his body. How cool was that! Jesus made sure he encountered the one who had shown such great faith.
The woman’s shame from bleeding would have been real, knowing that she was “unclean” in the eyes of the people. She was taking a huge risk by showing herself in such a way. How did Jesus respond? He did not accuse her but showed great compassion. “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. Your suffering is over.” Can you imagine the relief? Do you ever let shame or embarrassment hold you back from seeking Jesus or letting your faith lead your life?
Both of these examples reveal Jesus’ tender mercy and desire to bring wholeness. What an amazing a loving God we have! Faith in Jesus is extremely powerful, but it’s helpful to remember that not every prayer for healing will result in a cure. That doesn’t mean we’re not supposed to ask and believe. God’s answer will always be in accordance with his will, and unfortunately, we don’t always understand. Let these examples give you a faith boost, and remember Jesus is always with us, no matter what.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, your healing power astounds me. I’ve witnessed a dear friend becoming cancer-free. Hallelujah for your healing and all the devout faith of many who prayed for your healing touch. Draw me closer to you and expand my faith. I want to boldly approach you in my times of need. Thank you for all the ways you answer my prayers, even if it is different than what I imagined. You are always faithful. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
