DAILY DEVOTIONAL - Interruptions

DAILY DEVOTIONAL, DECEMBER 21ST
Posted to Mark 5:36 on Dec 14, 2009 at 02:49 PM

Mark 5:36

But Jesus, overhearing what was being spoken, said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid any longer, only believe.”
“Interruptions”

With a work deadline looming, it was hard to find time to write my Our Daily Journey articles this month. I was strongly tempted to put on a “Do-Not-Disturb-Me” demeanor at work. For even though I tried to protect some time to think and write, it never happened. I was bombarded by e-mails that required immediate attention, or the immediate need to discuss specific projects with a colleague.

Interruptions. How should we handle them?

Jesus knew all about interruptions. One day, just after He had reached the shore of Galilee, a distraught man in dire straits greeted Him with an urgent plea. Jairus implored Jesus to follow him quickly. His daughter was dying, and he wanted Jesus to heal her (Mark 5:22). While they were making their way through the crowd to Jairus’ house, Jesus suddenly realized that “healing power had gone out from Him” (v.30).

To the disciples, this was an undesired interruption. Their tone belied their frustration. They said, “Look at this crowd pressing around You. How can You ask, ‘Who touched Me?’ ” (v.31). But Jesus, full of compassion, took time to minister to a suffering woman. Her illness had made her ceremonially unclean (Leviticus 15:25-27), and she hadn’t been able to participate in community life for 12 years! Jesus looked the woman in the eye and assured her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. Your suffering is over” (Mark 5:34).

Jairus’ daughter died while Jesus was busy helping the woman. It was too late—or so it seemed. The unwanted interruption allowed Jairus to experience an even deeper knowledge of Jesus and His power—even power over death!

When your schedule is interrupted, trust in God and His power. He will help you accomplish all that needs to be done. —Poh Fang Chia, Our Daily Journey

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