Mark 6:53-56

53 When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored the boat. 54 When they got out of the boat, people at once recognized him, 55 and rushed about that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56 And wherever he went, into villages or cities or farms, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed.

Can you see it?  Can you see the scene in this passage? Gennesaret filled with people who need healing – coming on their own, or brought there by people they love – just wanting to touch even the hem of the garment Jesus wears – filled with faith that this is it – this is the answer they’ve been looking for – the way back to life from whatever kind of pain and illness plagues them.

The presence of Jesus has become a sign of possibility in their lives – a sign that a new way might be possible.  Jesus is recognized because he has delivered healing and hope to people again and again.  He sees the people others have stopped noticing, and he cares about their lives. And that caring is so strong it comes out of the hem of the clothing he is wearing.

What does that kind of healing look like today?  Can we see it?  Can we see it in the ways we come to people as part of the body of Christ?

Prayer: Dear God, Help us to experience healing and hope in you.  Help us to offer healing and hope to other people on your behalf.  Amen

Reflection Questions:

  • Can you imagine Jesus coming into a place offering healing and hope today? What does it look like in your minds’ eye?
  • What kind of healing are you praying for these days?
  • Is there someone you love in need of healing – maybe physical, maybe emotional? What would it be like to bring them to touch the hem of Jesus cloak?  Can you pray for them in that way?