Luke 8:50

New International Version (NIV)

Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.”

For meditation

O, the beauty of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! His presence is so warm and comforting; there is peace and safety at all times around Him. The Psalmist was right. “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty” (Ps. 91:1). We who have lived in the village and walked miles to the farm and back can relate to this truth. Nothing is as welcoming and refreshing as walking into the shadow of the oak tree and away from the heat of the noonday sun, especially when there is a brook in the thicket. The cool breeze that welcomes the farmer couldn’t be more comfortable and relaxing.

Think about the moment Jesus uttered those comforting and reassuring words to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed” (Lk. 8:50).  Can you imagine the big sigh he may have let out and the calm that may have come upon Jairus?

His daughter was dying, but thank God Jesus was in town. Jairus had faith in the Lord for healing, so he went and prostrated before Him and pleaded for His presence in his house (41-42). It is interesting to note Jairus’ request: “pleading with him to come to his house.” You see, faith has a settled assurance in Jesus that all the believer needs at any time is His manifest Presence. Jairus knew this truth very well.

The Master granted Jairus’ request, but a woman with a twelve-year problem and the same assurance interrupted their walk to Jairus’ house. In that brief moment, a messenger came to Jairus. “Your daughter is dead,” he said. “Don’t bother the teacher anymore” (49). Nothing could have been as soothing and assuring to Jairus as the Teacher’s words, “Don’t be afraid.” That is the blessing of the Master’s manifest Presence.

1. What else do we need in this world?
2. What trouble can take the assurance and power of Jesus’ Presence from His children, but their lack of faith?
3. Do you see why fear has become one of the most effective weapons of the enemy?
4. Are you not glad that Jesus, who knows what fear can do to our faith, always whispers softly to us at such times: “Don’t be afraid?”
5. Can you hear Him now in the midst of your suffering and pain?

I pray you will receive the same assurance and comfort that since Jesus is with you in the storm, you will not drown. He will speak to your situation and bring the calm and peace you need in your life now (Mk. 4:39-41).

So: May you kick yourself out of your blues in the strength of the Lord; and may the voice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ boom over your troubles and settle everything for you!

It is well!

Shalom