Always a New Beginning

Scripture – Mark 5:35-43: ³⁵While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher any more?” ³⁶Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” ³⁷He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. ³⁸When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. ³⁹He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” ⁴⁰But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. ⁴¹He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means, “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). ⁴²Immediately the girl stood up and walked around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. ⁴³He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.

Reflection: I once saw a saying, “God may seem slow, but He’s never late.” I imagine Jairus being very impatient as Jesus takes His time on this trip. Then, when the news came that his daughter had died….I cannot imagine how he must have felt.

In the face of that, Jesus’ word must have seemed hollow – “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” Jesus knew it was not too late. He knows what He’s doing. The child still had life ahead of her.

There are times I let myself give up – when I figure it’s too late. I forget that God can do anything. I’ve seen Him do amazing things in the past. Yet I still need to be reminded from time to time, Christ is never out of control. So even when I think all is lost, a new beginning is always in the works.

Keep me looking forward, Lord. You have always provided. You are always in control. Forgive me when my faith falls short. I’m ready for the new thing you have planned for today.