City Life Starter

Written by Nate Warren

The Word

Now when Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed him, for they were all waiting for him. And there came a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue. And falling at Jesus’ feet, he implored him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying.

As Jesus went, the people pressed around him. And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, and though she had spent all her living on physicians, she could not be healed by anyone. She came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, and immediately her discharge of blood ceased. And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the crowds surround you and are pressing in on you!” But Jesus said, “Someone touched me, for I perceive that power has gone out from me.” And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.”

Luke 8:40-48 ESV

Reflection

The story of Jesus encounter with this suffering woman gives us much to consider:

Just a Touch – Her faith was more than a set of dogmas. Her bold belief moved her to action. Because her belief was in the right thing, that is, Jesus, it worked.

Power – When her hands touched the tassels of Jesus’ garment, power was transmitted to her body. Jesus literally felt it leave his body. What was this power? Did Jesus consciously direct it, or did it surprise Him?

Called Out – This was not overlooked by Jesus. He stops the whole train on a seemingly life-or-death mission to finish what she started. She was physically healed on her active faith by a touch. By Jesus’ word she was restored in dignity.

Daughter – Divine healing is wholistic – body, mind, spirit, and social. By calling her daughter, Jesus announces her identity as a child of God.

Application

Answer:
1. What does your healing look like in this season?

2. Are you prepared to be called out by Jesus?

3. How do you perceive yourself? Who are you? Is your identity defined in your adoption as an heir of God’s kingdom?

4. What kind of bold action is necessary for you to achieve your God-ordained mission?

Prayer

Father,
May I act boldly by Your Word. I know that power rests with me as an heir and agent of Your kingdom. May my faith and trust meet its potency for full righteous effect.
In Jesus name,
Amen