Jesus had been approached by a grieving father to come to his home, for his twelve year old daughter was dying.  On the way, in the middle of a large crowd, pressing in on Him, a woman received healing (see yesterday’s devotional) by faith in Jesus.

  Now, someone came to the father and said, “Your daughter has died; do not trouble the Teacher any longer.”  (Luke 8:49)  [Too late – despair of death]

When Jesus heard this message He answered, “Do not be afraid any longer; only believe, and she will be made well.”  (Luke 8:50)  [With Jesus – our living hope is to be in Him and in His works.]

Jesus came to the house and He did not allow anyone to enter it with Him, except Peter, John and James and the parents of the girl.  (Luke 8:51)  [Jesus had the authority and was in charge of the situation.]

  Jesus had entered the house with a select few and the story continues from that point:
The parents were weeping and lamenting the girl and Jesus said, “Stop weeping, for she has not died, but is asleep.”  (Luke 8:52)  [Jesus has information we do not have.]

The parents began laughing at Jesus…they knew she had died!  (Luke 8:53)  [Derisive laughter revealed doubt and disbelief.]

Jesus then took the girl’s hand and called, “Child, arise!” (Luke 8:54)  [Jesus has power over death; He is the Giver of life.]

The girl’s life had been restored in her and she immediately stood up and Jesus ordered that something be given to her to eat.  (Luke 8:55)  [Jesus gave realistic treatment for her needs…she was hungry and she also needed to be seen as alive by her parents.]

The girl’s parents were amazed!  And Jesus instructed them to tell no one.  (Luke 8:56)  [Jesus gave explicit instructions to the parents and He expected them to listen and obey.]

Each facet of this true story has implication for each of us.
Who are you turning to when you are looking for help in your life?

When are you turning to Jesus and asking Him to help you?

Where in your life is Jesus at work because you have asked Him for help?

How are you responding?  Are you responding with faith in His power to work in your behalf?

What do you need to do at this moment?