"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)
Saturday, February 24, 2024 - Day 55 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 11-13; Mark 5:21-43)
FEAR OR FAITH?
While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”... Taking her by the hand he said to her, “Talitha cumi,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. (Mark 5:35-36, 42-42 ESV)
Jesus makes two life-altering statements in this account.
“Do not fear, only believe.”
and
“Little girl, I say to you, arise.”
How life-altering to live by faith and not under fear. The only One who can back up such a directive is He who created all things. Jesus backs up His words and His desire by calling the dead little girl to come back to life.
This is exactly what He does to and for us daily by calling us to faith and repentance.
Do you have any fear in your life? Listen to Jesus, the One who guarantees forgiveness and heaven to all who repent and believe. With such gracious and life-altering promises, you can truly be at peace no matter what your circumstances in life may be!
If thou but suffer God to guide thee,
And hope in Him through all thy ways,
He’ll give thee strength whate’er betide thee,
And bear thee through the evil days.
Who trusts in God’s unchanging love
Builds on the rock that nought can move.
(Lutheran Service Book #750)
Lord Jesus, thank You for calling me to faith by defeating my greatest fears. Please keep me strong in that faith all my days. And then, in Your time, grant me the gift of eternal life with You. Amen.
“See” you in church tomorrow!
Pastor David Paape
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year.
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