Lives Changed by Jesus

July 03, 2021

Lives Changed by Jesus

“But Jesus put them all outside and took the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and went in where the child was. Taking her by the hand he said to her, ‘Talitha cumi,’ which means, ‘Little girl, I say to you arise.’ And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. And he strictly charged them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.” - Mark 5:40-43

This week, we have seen the Jewish laws regarding what is clean and unclean turned upside down. The bleeding woman was isolated from society because her mere presence could contaminate others. Dead bodies were also considered unclean and could not to be touched. Jesus seemed unfazed by the ritual laws. Instead of reprimanding the afflicted woman for her touch, he praised her faith. Instead of distancing himself from the dead body of this young girl, Jesus took her by the hand and instructed her to get up. Once again, Mark used the word “immediately” (twice) as he described how the child rose and began to walk. Just imagine the amazement in the room that day! The impossible had just happened; a dead person had been brought back to life.

Jairus and his family must have wanted to shout the good news from the rooftop, but Jesus told them to keep it a secret. Why? That is one of many questions Mark left unanswered. Did the healed woman ever marry and have children? Did she continue to follow Jesus until the end of his earthly ministry? Did Jairus continue his work at the synagogue, or was he exposed as a follower of Jesus? Did the child remember anything about her death experience? We don’t know what happened next for these people, but we do know their lives were changed forever by an encounter with Jesus. With just a touch and a few instructions, a little girl arose from the dead. With just a brush of his robe, the bleeding woman was healed.

For all he left us to ponder, Mark did answer several questions. The rumors about Jesus were true. He was unlike any other. His presence changed everything and offered hope even for an untreatable disease and a deceased daughter. We are called to reflect on how Jesus has changed our hearts and lives as well. We have been saved from sin, the powers of evil, and even death itself. So, how are we living in light of what Jesus has done for us? Are we following him and serving him? Are we sharing the good news about what he had done for us and the salvation he offers to all who believe? Have we proclaimed and demonstrated his love for sinners, the destitute, and those without hope?

Reflect and Respond:
Spend some time today to ponder and marvel at what Jesus has done in your life. Does your life reflect your gratitude and amazement? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Related Resources:

In our new six-week Bible study on the book of 1 John, you are invited to live and celebrate true life in Christ. Throughout his first letter, John wrestles with the assurance of salvation. How do we know that we are genuine Christians, and how can we recognize authentic faith in others? The Apostle John taught that you can enjoy full assurance through believing in the incarnate Son of God, walking in the light of obedience, and loving God and his children. Embark on this study with us today!