Sunday, June 28, 2015

Jesus and Healing

I am sure every individual who prays has asked for immediate healing of some sort for either themselves or a loved one.  It is only human nature.  As I reflected on the gospel reading today I could not help of thinking of the many times that I wanted immediate responses to my prayer as Jarius pleaded.  However, his plea was one of faith knowing of Jesus and his recent ministry.  But what about the woman along the way to the residence of Jarius?  She had endured suffering for twelve years and had sought medical attention for an equal amount of time losing her own money during this trial.  Her hardship parallels the suffering of many who endure countless amounts of money and time seeking cures for maladies and diseases.  What can we learn from her?

I harken back to my original statement about asking for healing and immediacy of results.  This woman demonstrated faith.  Just touching Jesus' cloak was enough for her.  “If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured.”  Her faith resonates with Paul's acclamation in 2 Timothy 4:7 in which he states "I have kept the faith" knowing that his life was coming to an end.  The woman having endured suffering but having faith even despite the failings of medical professionals somehow knows that Jesus is the answer.  Knowing this I can take a page from this passage and apply it to my life when I want answers to my prayers or my daily trials and tribulations. Faith endures.  The message is clear this past week when reflecting on Abraham's faith journey in Genesis. Abraham is blessed with a child despite Sara's barrenness and his age. All things are possible with God and through Jesus.

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