Today in the Gospel reading from Mark 5, we see two miracle healings. The two are similar, yet very different. And we can learn lessons from both of them. A synagogue official comes and asks Jesus to heal his young daughter. She was deathly ill. So Jesus and his retinue set out for the man’s house.
Along the way, a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years sneaks up on Jesus and touches his cloak. She knew that if she but touched him, she would be healed. Jesus knew that someone had touched him and when the woman fessed up, Jesus said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.” When they arrive at the official’s house, they tell Jesus that the girl is already dead. But Jesus persists. They ridicule Him, but He goes in and heals the girl.
Two healings, two different situations. In the one, the woman goes to Jesus for herself. In the other, someone comes on another’s behalf. In both, Jesus heals. This is a wonderful lesson for us. Never be ashamed or afraid to seek healing for yourself. And always be bold enough to ask for healing for others. It doesn’t matter what others think. Jesus can and does heal.
Father, give us the faith of the two people in today’s Gospel reading. May we always come to Jesus for healing, whether for ourselves or others. Amen.
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