Taking His Hand

Scripture – Mark 9:20-29: ²⁰So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. ²¹Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. ²²“It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” ²³“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” ²⁴Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” ²⁵When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the evil spirit. “You deaf and mute spirit,” he said, “I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” ²⁶The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, “He’s dead.” ²⁷But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up. ²⁸After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” ²⁹He replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer.”

Reflection: There are many familiar dynamics at work in this healing. The spirit recognized Jesus and realized its control over the boy had come to an end.

The father expressed his faith in Jesus. It doesn’t have to be perfect or full. Just a little faith is enough. Jesus knows my weakness. As I look to Him, He helps me over come my unbelief.

The healing is done as quietly as it could be. Jesus called the spirit out when He saw a crowd running over to see. And so, this business of keeping things under wraps continued.

Then the boy himself is healed. Jesus took him by the hand and helped him up. How often do I fail to take His hand when it’s offered?

Thank you, Lord, for your continuing healing touch in my life and in this world. Keep strengthening my faith. Lift me up and into ever new life. Use me to help others, as well.