Mark Devotions
[Please do read the passages before (or after) reading the devotion.]
All hope was lost. Jairus, with all his religion and authority thought that Jesus would come and heal his dying daughter before it was too late. Jesus agreed but then stopped to heal the woman with the hemorrhage. And in that delay the little girl died! It can be heart-breaking when you desperately needed something – a matter of life and death – clutched at a slim hope for relief, and then that hope is suddenly and completely snuffed out. And then Jesus says “Don’t be afraid, just believe.” It is at that point Jesus asks us, “Who do you believe is the real authority here – yourself, your circumstance, people’s opinions/reactions… or me?” Belief in God and the giving up of fear are linked. To the one who has learned to trust in Jesus, His love, His wisdom, His power – that person is also willing to give up their fear of what they themselves cannot change so that He (Jesus) can bring something beautiful out of it.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, it is when all seems lost: when the rest of the world says there is no hope – that is when I need you the most. I trust that you in your wisdom use everything that happens to me, your child, for your glory and my transformation. All I ask dear Lord, is that when everything seems dark, that you will let me hear your loving voice remind me, “Don’t be afraid, just believe.” I know you love me. Holy Spirit, keep reminding me of your past faithfulness and reassure me of your Presence, and that will give me Peace. Amen.
