She broke free from the forces keeping her silent; the voices and affliction no longer restrained her.
A woman who had suffered a condition of hemorrhaging for twelve years—a long succession of physicians had treated her, and treated her badly, taking all her money and leaving her worse off than before—had heard about Jesus.
What led her to think he was different?
For years, in her desperation, she sought liberation; freedom from a condition that was a constant reminder of the depravity of her existence. Unclean.
For years, in her desperation, she sought healing power from the touch of hands she trusted. But they betrayed her. Both body and soul.
But hope still stirred beneath the layers of shame clothing her. It flowed up and out through her hands.
She slipped in from behind and touched his robe. She was thinking to herself, “If I can put a finger on his robe, I can get well.” The moment she did it, the flow of blood dried up. She could feel the change and knew her plague was over and done with.
One person. She kept waiting for that one. And then encountered the One. At the same moment, Jesus felt energy discharging from him. He turned around to the crowd and asked, “Who touched my robe?”
It takes courage to recognize that your needs matter to Jesus. Especially when other voices drown out yours.
It takes courage to make yourself visible when it would be easier to hide.
His disciples said, “What are you talking about? With this crowd pushing and jostling you, you’re asking, ‘Who touched me?’ Dozens have touched you!”
But he went on asking, looking around to see who had done it. The woman, knowing what had happened, knowing she was the one, stepped up in fear and trembling, knelt before him, and gave him the whole story.
Unwavering faith compels us to summon up the ability to take risks. We listen to the inner voice speaking out of our Imago Dei that reminds us: “You matter.”
Jesus said to her, “Daughter, you took a risk of faith, and now you’re healed and whole. Live well, live blessed! Be healed of your plague.
He pronounced a benediction over her life. Loudly. He announced that restoration is possible. For anyone.
All it took was a touch. What are you waiting for?
* This account is found in Mark 5:25-34. (The Message)
It does take courage. She persisted, didn’t she? I’m in the 33 spot this week.
Lovely version/interpretation of a familiar story. Brings it alive. Thank you.
Your FMF Neighbour #58
I enjoyed your reflections here. This is one of my favourite stories in the Bible. It must have taken such courage to recognise that her needs mattered to Jesus and to approach him despite her worries of what the crowd would think.
Yes. There is so much to learn from her.
That first line got me – I it’s a hearts desire of many woman including me. Much I can relate to here – thank you. Linked up next to you at FMF this week.