Locations & Times

What was wrong with Jairus' daughter? (She was sick.)

Who healed her? (Jesus)

Who can heal? (Jesus can heal.)

Read: Luke 8:40-55

Jairus, a ruler of the local synagogue, was a man with status and authority. He was probably recognized by many people in the crowd, yet he begged at the feet of Jesus in the most undignified way. He was a desperate father. The Bible doesn’t tell us what Jesus’ immediate reaction was because he was quickly interrupted by another very sick woman, the one from the story last week. While Jesus tended to that woman, a messenger from Jairus’ house broke through the crowd with bad news. Jairus’ daughter was dead.

Many in the crowd, including Jairus, probably assumed Jesus had missed his opportunity to save the little girl. However, as always, Jesus was intentional with every move he made. First, he reassured Jairus and told him not to be afraid (Luke 8:50). Then, he encouraged Jairus to have faith, commanding him to, “only believe,” Luke 8:50. And finally, he gave him a promise. He told Jairus, “she will be made well,” Luke 8:50. People had good reason to believe Jesus’ words since they had literally just witnessed him heal the bleeding woman because of her faith. The timing was not an accident.

Jesus knows what is precious to us. He knows what would cause us to lose all dignity and beg at his feet. We can be confident that Jesus meets us with the same compassion and mercy he gave to Jairus that day. When everything feels dark and hopeless, Jesus reassures us. We do not have to be afraid because he has overcome sickness and pain forever. He calls us to have faith that he can do anything. He has proven that to us by rising from the dead. And finally, Jesus gives us a promise. While death and darkness may seem more powerful than light and life, one day, he will make all things new (Revelation 21:5).

Can you think of a time in your life where you felt the reassurance of Jesus, where your faith was strengthened, and when you were reminded of his promise?

How does Revelation 21:5 put into perspective the hard things you walk through in your life?