Day Fifty-Three: Celebrated Faith
“33Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” (Mark 5:33-34, NIV)
The verses above are some of my favorites because they reveal a side of Jesus most people miss. Notice that Jesus stopped to take note of who touched Him, and the woman knew He wasn’t going to let the matter go without a formal address. At that moment, cultural norms would have reminded her that she was unclean, and “touching” a rabbi who was clean would result in horrific consequences … publicly, relationally and economically. So, she knew she had to identify herself regardless of the cost. However, Jesus isn’t an ordinary rabbi. You cannot make Jesus unclean. Therefore, we must understand that His desire to address the woman wasn’t motivated by discipline, but rather celebration.
Jesus wanted to celebrate FAITH! Additionally, He wanted to unpack all that faith unlocks – not only healing but freedom. To be imprisoned and labeled by a diagnosis, poor decision, tragic death, or be victimized by evil is unbearable, which is why Healing is fantastic! But, to be free as well is exceeding all expectations. Imagine, the effects of trauma reversed. Reputation restored and elevated. Why? Because The Messiah has seen me, relieved me of my burden, and released me to walk in my purpose. WOW!
How? Why? Jesus explains clearly, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” Jesus is not implying that He had nothing to do with healing the woman. Instead, He is stating that her steadfast pursuit, unwavering reliance, and bold agreement enabled her to receive what He had to offer. You see, Jesus wasn’t a rabbi who healed; He is Healer! He isn’t one who can provide; He is Provider! He doesn’t make “a way;” He is the Waymaker! Faith doesn’t say, “I think He can.” Faith says, “He IS, and therefore He WILL!”
Pause, reflect, and consider how you pray. Maybe the shift you are believing for begins when you declare, “I BOLDLY receive all He is.”
Blessings,
Andy Smith