Do Not Fear, Only Believe

Now when Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed him, for they were all waiting for him. Just then there came a man named Jairus, a leader of the synagogue. He fell at Jesus’ feet and begged him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years old, who was dying. As he went, the crowds pressed in on him. Now there was a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years; and though she had spent all she had on physicians, no one could cure her. She came up behind him and touched the fringe of his clothes, and immediately her hemorrhage stopped. Then Jesus asked, “Who touched me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the crowds surround you and press in on you.” But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; for I noticed that power had gone out from me.” When the woman saw that she could not remain hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before him, she declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” While he was still speaking, someone came from the leader’s house to say, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the teacher any longer.” When Jesus heard this, he replied, “Do not fear. Only believe, and she will be saved.” When he came to the house, he did not allow anyone to enter with him, except Peter, John, and James, and the child’s father and mother. They were all weeping and wailing for her; but he said, “Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But he took her by the hand and called out, “Child, get up!” Her spirit returned, and she got up at once. Then he directed them to give her something to eat. Her parents were astounded; but he ordered them to tell no one what had happened. Luke 8:40-56 

Yesterday we had an extraordinary gathering for Indigenous Peoples' Day. Both Massachusetts dioceses were represented, and people came from across the state to be there. We heard from three amazing Indigenous leaders, people of great spiritual strength, both humble and honest. Their honesty and faith, their willingness to stories from the heart, changed lives. The way of healing was begun. We took some small steps in faith yesterday and incredible gifts were received.

Gracious Creator, in you we find our healing

in sharing our stories and our suffering

you move in to dwell with everyone who cries

and you visit the houses of frightened parents.

We cannot heal on our own but with your spirit

help us to put fear aside and believe in your love

let us take our small steps in faith always trusting

that you will meet us on our journey of healing.

Lord Jesus, we ask you to put renew faith within

cover our weary spirits with a gentle breeze

lift our hearts so that we might walk again

in the light of your healing and your grace. Amen.