I once knew a doctor who was seriously lacking in ‘bedside manner’. Technically his colleagues regarded him as one of the finest in his field, but his cold, formal manner often left his patients in tears!
By contrast observe Jesus, sometimes referred to as ‘the Great Physician’. It’s not just that He healed people, it’s how He did it, with individual care and attention.
As Jairus faces an abyss of inconsolable sorrow, his young daughter having just died, the Lord softly tells him, ‘Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed’. Now He could just speak a command as on other occasions, but He chooses to visit the home, giving the parents special courtesy and respect.
Then He takes the young girl’s cool hand and gently calls her soul back. She rises, well, and Jesus suggests, perhaps with a smile, that she might like something to eat! (v 55)
The Son of God offers us His hand, a hand bringing us comfort, reassurance, strong and kind help. Here is a Saviour Who is willing to be our Friend.
This is the same Person Who preached about sin and the need for repentance, Who challenged the hypocrisy of an uncaring religious establishment with prophetic passion and biting wit. (Check out Matthew 23!) But with loving devotion and great tenderness He ministers to individuals and families who humbly seek His help.
Call Him God with a human touch. Or the Man with a divine touch. My old Theology Professor used to give us solemn definitions like ‘fully God and fully man’ which I take to mean God enough to do something and human enough to feel it.
How can we not trust and adore Him?
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for all You are and do,
and for the beautiful way You do it.
I worship You, and I love You.
You are so welcome in our home!
I gladly take Your hand.
Please comfort and help me and those I love.
Help me to ‘get up’ and live for Your honour,
Today and always.
Amen.