Faith Beyond Hopelessness

“One of the rulers of the synagogue … fell at [Jesus’] feet and begged Him earnestly saying, ‘My little daughter lies at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, that she may be healed, and she will live’” (Mark 5:22).

When this ruler, Jairus, ran to Jesus, he was affirming true faith: “Lord, all my daughter needs is you. You have all power and you can keep her from dying!” Jairus represents most of Christianity. We know Christ is our only hope, and in our times of crisis we run to him, fall at his feet, and seek his mercy and help. Responding to the faith of Jairus, “Jesus went with him” (verse 24).

Even while his heart was filled with great hope, Jairus also may have been struck by a terrible thought: “What if we’re too late? It’s wonderful to have Jesus by my side, but we need time. We need Jesus and time!” Most likely the people looking on said among themselves, “Jesus is the great physician but he’d better hurry — she may die at any minute.” And what happened? The little girl died!

Why did Jesus permit time to run out? Because he wanted his followers to have faith in his resurrection power — faith that goes beyond hopelessness, beyond even death! “Some came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house who said, ‘Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” (5:35). And Jesus instantly said, “Do not be afraid; only believe” (5:36).

Jesus never gives up on the dead! Walking right into a terrible scene of confusion, doubt and fear, he proclaimed words of life: “Little girl, I say to you, arise” (5:41).

Is there great commotion and upheaval in your life? Grieving? Confusion? Oppression? It could be because you do not believe that Jesus can resurrect what is dead. Believe that Jesus knows what he is doing; he has a life-giving plan for you, so don’t give up. Jesus will work a miracle if you will trust in his Word.