Word@Work 063 - Mark 5:41-43
Published: Fri, 02/15/08
Word@Work from BeaconLight
Read Mark 5:41-43 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 walked around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat. (NIV)
Despite having all the authority of the Godhead in his body (Col.2v9), Jesus was amazingly gentle. The strong words of command which rebuked evil spirits or commanded faith, were not necessary as He took the girl by the hand: and new life flowed into her. The kindness of God is a Biblical and practical reality - the poor and the meek depend on it!
There was no delay - she got up immediately, walked around and had a bite to eat. Whatever Jairus may have expected, I don't think this was it! But then, he had trusted in the person of Jesus - not trusted Jesus for an expected result. The synagogue ruler had come to Jesus and placed his life into Divine hands. That was all that was needed. There was nothing more that faith could do. There was no 'name it and claim it' theology here, just a simple giving over to Jesus the decisions about where to go, what to do and who to be with ... and then to go with whatever Jesus said. This was real faith.
Although the 'resurrection' miracle comes as a climax to the story, don't forget that it was the straightforward, non-arguing, non-demanding (and patient) faith of her father that sets the scene. Allowing Jesus to work despite logical objections is the hallmark of real faith. Jesus commanded it of Jairus, and he was obedient.
Today, many so called 'intellectual' objections are used to justify lack of faith. They get their reward - the absence of God's intervening power. This is as much a problem for the disciples as with the crowd. Perhaps it is time to reassess our own willingness to make way for Jesus, and to follow His logic rather than demanding that He should copy ours. The life of faith soon becomes visible (which was why Jesus did not them to talk about the miracle - lest this episode should force the timing of the cross). For the watching non-Christian, our willing obedience may spur their consciences to do the same.
Prayer: Father God, give me a fresh insight into my own life - if it is being lived in faith or not. Help me to consciously let you work in my life so that I may know your blessing, and that others can be challenged to obey your call also. For Christ's sake, Amen.
You can read more of this Bible passage online - in English and other languages - share the Bible with your friends!
Despite having all the authority of the Godhead in his body (Col.2v9), Jesus was amazingly gentle. The strong words of command which rebuked evil spirits or commanded faith, were not necessary as He took the girl by the hand: and new life flowed into her. The kindness of God is a Biblical and practical reality - the poor and the meek depend on it!
There was no delay - she got up immediately, walked around and had a bite to eat. Whatever Jairus may have expected, I don't think this was it! But then, he had trusted in the person of Jesus - not trusted Jesus for an expected result. The synagogue ruler had come to Jesus and placed his life into Divine hands. That was all that was needed. There was nothing more that faith could do. There was no 'name it and claim it' theology here, just a simple giving over to Jesus the decisions about where to go, what to do and who to be with ... and then to go with whatever Jesus said. This was real faith.
Although the 'resurrection' miracle comes as a climax to the story, don't forget that it was the straightforward, non-arguing, non-demanding (and patient) faith of her father that sets the scene. Allowing Jesus to work despite logical objections is the hallmark of real faith. Jesus commanded it of Jairus, and he was obedient.
Today, many so called 'intellectual' objections are used to justify lack of faith. They get their reward - the absence of God's intervening power. This is as much a problem for the disciples as with the crowd. Perhaps it is time to reassess our own willingness to make way for Jesus, and to follow His logic rather than demanding that He should copy ours. The life of faith soon becomes visible (which was why Jesus did not them to talk about the miracle - lest this episode should force the timing of the cross). For the watching non-Christian, our willing obedience may spur their consciences to do the same.
Prayer: Father God, give me a fresh insight into my own life - if it is being lived in faith or not. Help me to consciously let you work in my life so that I may know your blessing, and that others can be challenged to obey your call also. For Christ's sake, Amen.
You can read more of this Bible passage online - in English and other languages - share the Bible with your friends!
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