Women In Need – Read Mark 5: 21-43
Contemplation
As we row back, there’s a huge crowd waiting for us. Shouting and pushing and crying, the smell of a crowd and the feel of sand under our feet again. The people are letting an important person through – he’s Jairus, a community leader, but he’s very upset. He’s seen a lot, but he’s sobbing like a child. “My daughter, my daughter, is sick!” Just then, there’s a rustle behind and a woman grabs Jesus’ clothes, holding on for all she’s worth. “Who touched me?” The disciples laugh. “Who DIDN’T touch you! We can’t breathe for the pushing and shoving.” “No, really! Stop! Something important just happened.” The woman who held Jesus’ clothes looks up, she’s frightened but also … at peace somehow.
“It was me! I was bleeding. For years and years I was bleeding and no one could help – but I knew that if I could only touch you everything would be alright… and it is. I’m better”. “Go in peace! Your faith has healed you”. But now people from the official’s house are here. “He can’t do any more! Your daughter’s dead.” Jairus breaks down, but Jesus is there, “Don’t be afraid, just have faith.” What?
Now he’s off to Jairus’ house, with crowds following. Jesus shoos them away, just taking Peter, James and John in. The house is full of grief, sadness clings to the walls and the cries echo. “What’s this? She’s just sleeping!” Everyone laughs and mocks, but Jesus goes into her room with her parents. The body of the little girl lies on the bed. “Little girl, get up!” Groggily, she opens her eyes and rolls out of bed, walking like someone confused – but she’s amazed and excited. Everyone is shocked! “Don’t tell anyone,” says Jesus. ”Give her some food.”
Have I had life-long pains, hurts, worries?
What bits of me are dead?
Can I ask Jesus in – or even just reach out and touch him?