Day 23: February 19

SCRIPTURE READING: MATTHEW 9:18-26

SCRIPTURE HIGHLIGHTS:
v18-Jesus was busy; v 22 faith made her well
 
OBSERVATIONS:
It is important to also read Mark 5:22-43 and Luke 8:41-56 to get the full scope of this story. 
Faith is the common thread between both healing stories. Jesus says, “Your faith has made you well.” to the woman with the issue and says to the ruler Jairus, “Do not fear, only believe”.  Both healings were based on faith in Jesus not the desired touch.

There is a contrast between the two people in need. They are old/young, living/dead, poor/rich, self-advocating/advocated for but also the same. They are females, both with the least authority and influence in society during Jesus’ time on earth.

The woman with the issue thought to touch the fringe of Jesus’ garment. This was great faith because the Jews understood the tassel represents all the law and commandments. The fringe of Jesus’ garment had priestly significance that was specifically designed by God so the priest would remember the commandments and not follow after their own heart. (Num 15:37-41; Deut 22:12) The tassels were to remind the priest to depend on the Lord for everything by a constant reminder of a law they couldn’t fulfill. She depended on the better covenant Jesus.
 
APPLICATION:
The woman touched the tassel representing the law but faith in Jesus, who is the better covenant, healed her. We have the testimony of those who have gone before us. We have the wonder of God’s creation and the special revelation of Jesus and the Bible and we are still called to do the same as the woman with the issue of blood and Jairus…. have faith.

The success of our faith is not in what we believe but in whom we believe. Not the prayer warriors getting a prayer through but in the one they are calling on to intercede. If we learn anything from this story it is that a persisting situation is not a reflection on God’s concern and interest.  If you’re living without Jesus, you’re dead. If you’re dying with Jesus there’s hope and if you’re dead in Jesus you will live. Hold fast to your faith in Jesus.
 
PRAYER:
Lord God, allow me to recognize that you are the source for all I need. Allow my eyes to be focused on you and not fall prey to the shiny eternally insignificant things the world presents to distract me and gain my affection. Let me be a gentle advocate for those with delicate circumstances and a faith warrior for those in situations where it appears all hope is lost.  I pray that you would marvel at my great faith, and I would be able to see it impact the world around me.  Help me hold fast to my faith because you are faithful.