We are living in what is known as the Information Age. Almost any question can be answered by doing a simple search on the Internet. The problem with that is, there is no way to vet the information returned from the search for accuracy. That leaves us to process the results we receive on the basis of our own internal database of past experiences and current situations. This can lead us to draw incorrect or even unfair conclusions. When life happens we often scramble for explanations to make sense of the timing or even the cause of the event. While searching, more information may pop up that removes all hope of a favorable result.
In the fifth chapter of the book of Mark. We are told of an official of the synagogue whose name is Jairus. He had a situation that was on the brink of disaster. His young daughter was very ill and needed immediate attention. He came and fell at the feet of Jesus asking for assistance (Mark 5:22-24). The crowd was very populous and it was not easy to get through. The urgency of the need continued to grow stronger. In the midst of Jairus’ issue there was a woman who had a pressing need as well, and Jesus was her last resort (vv.25-28). While Jesus addressed the woman, there were those who had additional information for Jairus. They told him not to worry about bringing Jesus. His daughter had already died (v.35).
Jesus overheard the words spoken to Jairus by the messengers . He spoke to Jairus with a word of instruction. He said, “‘Do not be afraid any longer, only believe. (v.36)”” Information has a way of steering our hearts. Bad news is never easy to handle. We can have much on our minds and struggle to process the information we have in a manner that enables us to remain positive. Jairus received yet another piece of information that would do little help him. The good in all of it was that Jesus overheard the conversation. Jesus did not speak to the messenger. Jesus spoke to Jairus. The information was intended to inform Jairus of the state of things at home. Jesus’ words did not confront the validity of the information, but He intended to disrupt Jairus’ thought process.
Fear is a natural reaction. It was the emotion most fitting for Jairus to process his situation. The words Jesus spoke were not intended for Jairus to forget what he heard but to steer him to trust the one he called on for help. Today as we search for answers to life’s difficult situations. There will be many answers but remember there is only one Truth. He (Jesus) is able. “”Do not fear, only believe.””
Be blessed.
