She Began to Serve Them

As soon as they left the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began to serve them. That evening, at sunset, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. And the whole city was gathered around the door. And he cured many who were sick with various diseases and cast out many demons; and he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. Mark 1:29-34

There is nothing like finally feeling better after a long illness and returning to the daily tasks we enjoy. We do not know the name of Simon's mother-in-law, but we do know she was very ill, and that Jesus healed her. This is early in his ministry, and he took her by the hand and lifted her up. He was not reluctant or unwilling to touch a sick person, a woman at that. Even at the beginning, his love for all people was physically evident in his willingness to heal and renew others. This woman may have been an unimportant person, but to Jesus she was deserving and loved. He didn't shy away from her, and he doesn't shy away from us. She got up and fed the group in gratitude and in love. We are deserving of love and healing from Jesus. We often think that we are not worthy. Yet Jesus is always more ready to heal and renew us. May we who receive his healing and love be ready to serve others who need healing and love as well.

Wondrous Creator, you sent us your Son

to remind us of the love and healing offered

of our abundant blessings in your reign

and that we are loved beyond all measure.

Too often we see our limits and downfalls

we think we do not deserve to be loved

we think compassion is only for others

that we are forgotten by our Creator.

Lord Jesus, lift us up and make us whole

rid the fear and discouragement from us

and give us the strength to rise up and serve

this world aching for your compassion today. Amen.