But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened. (Luke 8:54-56)
In the novel, Soul’s Gate, by James Rubart, Dana, Reece, and Brandon lead us into the soul of Marcus, a man who cherishes God and his family now but is ravaged from past mistakes when work consumed his life. Burning the memories in his soul doesn’t work because they resurface quickly. It isn’t until Brandon replaces his life-draining sins with God’s truths can he understand his calling and feel he is worthy of it.
Jairus, after becoming a believer will also battle his past. As a leader in the synagogue, he judged others. It will take time for Jairus to change, so Jesus tells him not to tell anyone what had happened. His daughter is the best person to tell the story. She understands God’s love and power and will be able to spread them quickly.
Jairus is confused, believing the Messiah should be a powerful king, not this poor, humble man who stops to heal an outcast. He is afraid his daughter will die in the meantime. If he continues to follow Jesus, Jairus will be dismissed from the synagogue and its leadership. Though afraid, he hasn’t Jesus. He has hope Jesus can breathe life into her. Jesus does, and Jairus learns God’s son will always lead him down the best path with the correct timing. After all, Jairus means “Jehovah enlightens.”
Father God, help me replace my forgiven sins with your truths, so my past doesn’t hinder me. I am Your child, unique above all creation, planned and perfect in design. I can do all things through Jesus, Who strengthens me. I am made alive through the power of Your Spirit, and I am worthy of Your calling. Heal me. Help me to get up, show others Your love and power, and act in Your will. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
I love your prayer, Jody! It is beautiful and very thought provoking. We should all be asking God to forgive our sins. God blesses us with forgiveness and we need to learn to forgive ourselves as God has done, otherwise we hold ourselves back. Sometimes forgiving yourself is a very hard thing to do.
I can do all thing through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13.
One of my favorite verses.
Forgiving ourselves is very hard. That’s why God reminds us often that it is important. You’re right. We can do all things through Christ. It is also one of my favorite verses. I’m glad you liked the prayer! Love you, Sis!