Mark 5:35-43
On your last visit to the doctor, we’re you nervous and afraid, that the acting physician would mishandle you, because of his or her lack of ability? The last time you took your vehicle to get serviced, did you question the mechanics, whether or not they knew how to inspect and service your vehicle? Did you laugh at the foreman of the construction crew, who handled the blueprints of a new apartment community, doubting that he knew what he was planning to do? When we see a man or woman, wearing a certain uniform that caters to a specific profession, we automatically believe they are capable of performing the duties associated with their titles. We don’t often doubt whether doctors, fireman, or even automobile mechanics are able to fulfill their assigned duties, or not. Instead, we have trust and belief that when we see a man or woman in uniform, they are well able to do what they are assigned to.
In our text, we find where Jesus was doing the works of His Father; more specifically, He was operating in divine healing, and working to rid many of sickness, demon possession, and even death. Jesus had built a reputation that preceded Himself, thus causing many to seek Him for healing and deliverance.
After casting a demon out of a man, and healing a woman who had an issue of blood for twelve long years, Jesus continued on His way to heal a man’s sick daughter. As Jesus and those who followed neared the house of the sick damsel, some came from the house and told the ruler of the synagogue, “Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?” (vs. 35b). Naturally, this is a common response from those who have no faith in the Man in uniform, but Jesus was no ordinary man, and the works that followed after Him, should have been enough proof for everyone to believe in His incredible power.
To make this story a bit more interesting, as Jesus entered the house, and noticed a great noise of weeping and wailing, He kindly told those gathered, “the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.” (vs. 39b). The next verse reads, “And they laughed him to scorn.” This is very interesting for a few reasons, but more specifically makes me wonder, how can they turn from crying to laughing so suddenly. Well, during these times, weeping and wailing was more of a custom, and not real sorrow. So, it could quickly be turned to laughter in a moment. The people knew the young girl was dead, so their scornful laughter was more of unbelief, and mockery for Jesus’ confident statement. The nerve of some people, smh. Jesus wisely put everyone out of the room, except for those who refused to doubt His power and authority, then went to work.
The Bible never mentions the response of those who doubted Jesus after He brought the twelve year old girl back to life, but I’m certain from that day on, that laughing crew never doubted the power of Jesus ever again.
Sometimes in life, you’ll encounter people who will doubt that God can bring you out of situations that may seem dead. But, if you keep your faith in the power of God, and surround yourself with those who are positive and encouraging, God will come through for you, and turn your doubters into believers.
Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,
Ell
Ell's Daily Inspirations 