Do not fear, only believe.

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.” And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. They came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and Jesus saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. And when he had entered, he said to them, “Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping.”

And they laughed at him. But he put them all outside and took the child's father and mother and those who were with him and went in where the child was. 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. And he strictly charged them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.

---

I can so relate to the words that I have captured in the title of this post. I battle fear on a daily basis when it comes to my wife's health. Just this week fear gripped me as she struggled to get out of bed and I caught her as she began to slip. Fear can be a very real issue when it comes to sickness and healing because of the way that it taps into our past and prevents us from trusting God today.

Thankfully Jesus is not dissuaded by our fear, our tears or even our mocking laughter - back then and today. I love the way that he did not make a production out of this but only brought a few disciples and kept others away. I can only imagine the amazed look on the parents as their child began to arise. Oh my, is there anyone like Jesus? Is there anyone more worthy of my trust than the Lord?

Help me to trust you in the present Lord and to not be hindered by past experiences.