My sister and I were looking forward to our holiday in Taiwan. We had purchased our plane tickets and booked our hotel rooms. But 2 weeks before the trip, my sister had to stay at home to handle an emergency. We were disappointed that our plans were interrupted.

Jesus’ disciples were with Him on an urgent mission when their trip was interrupted (Mark 5:21-42). The daughter of Jairus, a religious ruler, was dying. Time was of the essence, and Jesus was on His way to their home. Then, suddenly, Jesus stopped and said, “Who touched My clothes?” (v.30).

The disciples seemed irritated by this and said, “You see the multitude [bumping] You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’ ” (v.31). But Jesus saw it as an opportunity to care for a suffering woman. Her illness had made her ‘unclean’ and unable to join in with community life for 12 years (see Lev. 15:25-27).

While Jesus was talking to this woman, Jairus’ daughter died. It was too late—or so it seemed. But the delay allowed Jairus to experience an even deeper knowledge of Jesus and His power—even power over death!

Sometimes our disappointment can be God’s appointment.

Author

Poh Fang Chia

Topics

Our Daily Bread