God's Timing is Good Timing (Luke 8:40-56)
Journey with Jesus to the Cross (Friday, March 8)
Read Luke 8:40-56
Jairus must have felt that way in today’s scripture reading. His only daughter, merely twelve years old, was deathly ill. Hearing that Jesus was in town, the Bible tells us he “implored” Jesus to come and heal his daughter. No doubt he did: I’d “implore” too.
Imagine his relief as Jesus and his entourage made their way toward his home. His prayers would be answered. His persistence had paid off. His daughter would be saved.
This pleasant train of thought derailed when Jesus stopped in his tracks. “Who touched me?” he said. No answer. Jesus’ disciples were dubious: With so many people thronging about, how could he feel a single touch? "Someone touched me," Jesus said.
Imagine Jairus’ anxiety at this delay. “My daughter is dying! Let us hurry! Not a moment should be lost!”
Knowing she was found out, a frightened woman shamefacedly stepped forward. “I am the one who touched you,” she said. Jesus listened to her story, and gave her a public blessing corresponding with her personal healing.
This would have been marvelous to Jairus at any other time, but this was not the time for healing chronic illness. Where was Jesus’ sense of priorities? This woman had been ill for twelve years; couldn’t she wait another day? His little girl was….
Before he'd even completed the thought, his worst fear came true. Messengers arrived saying, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher….”
Imagine his shock. If only they hadn't been delayed! Why had they stopped to help that woman? They were so close! Sensing his frustration, Jesus said to him these words: “Do not fear; only believe.”
Entering their house, Jesus brought Jairus, his wife, and two of his disciples to their daughter’s bedside. Taking her limp hand in his, Jesus said, “Child, arise.” Life returned to her, she got up, and was restored to her family.
Jairus learned a valuable lesson that day. We must learn it too: God’s timing is not always our timing, but God’s timing is always good timing. “Do not fear; only believe.”
“Lord, help me to trust you even when I do not understand you. When I’m frustrated today, remind me: ‘Do not fear; only believe.’”