Day 4 – Jairus
“And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him, and he was beside the sea. Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing him, he fell at his feet and implored him earnestly, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.” And he went with him.”
Mark 5:21-24
Keeping in mind that faith and willingness nearly always involve risk, let’s picture this scene: A large crowd at a lakeshore to see and hear Jesus. Who is in this crowd? Probably followers and believers, along with some who are curious and questioning. There are also religious leaders – many of whom are very skeptical and even critical of Jesus. But at least one of them is there for a different reason. His young daughter’s deadly illness has created a willingness to risk his reputation and standing, his authority among people and peers, in the hope and prayer that what people have been saying about Jesus might be true.
And he doesn’t just come and ask, he throws himself in desperate humility at Jesus’s feet, “pleading earnestly.”
A father’s love is a powerful motivator. It is giving him laser focus.
The only risk he feels now is the risk of losing his little princess.
He is very willing.
INWARD: Father, what do you want me to know?
Is there something in my life that keeps me from being willing to fall at Jesus’ feet? A doubt? A hurt?
What motivation might it take to get me to that place?
OUTWARD: Father, what do you want me to do?
Pray: “Father, today I come….
Note: I would recommend reading the rest of the story on your own!
