Today we hear the familiar story of an official whose young daughter had died. Broken-hearted, he kneels before Jesus and begs Him to come, place His hand on her, and restore her life. Jesus immediately follows him home.
On the way, a woman who had suffered haemorrhages for twelve years quietly touches Jesus’ cloak, believing that even this will heal her. Jesus senses her presence, turns to her, and says, “Courage, daughter! Your faith has saved you!” At once, she is healed.
Jesus then arrives at the official’s house, where flute players and a crowd are making a commotion.

He tells them, “Go away! The child is not dead! She is sleeping!” Many ridicule him, certain the child is dead.
When everyone leaves except Jesus and the girl’s family, Jesus takes the child by the hand, and she rises. Her family must have been amazed and joyful; their daughter had been returned to life.
Is there a part of you that feels dead or dying? What life do you long to experience again? Do you believe Jesus can restore hope and joy in you?
We often recover slowly from the “haemorrhages” that disturb our peace. Unlike the little girl, we may not be restored in an instant. While waiting, we may feel hopeless or alone. Yet if we trust Jesus, He will take our hand and help us rise. In truth, He may already be holding our hand; we may simply not realise it.
Today, will we reach out to touch Jesus’ cloak, ask someone to intercede for us, or pray for another in pain? Jesus is with us, healing us and bringing us back to life. Do we trust him? He will not fail us!   Jesus is God.