Just 5 Words!
This week in our online bilingual Bible study each of us had to share a verse that had been our light, guide, comfort and strength in recent times.
This is the verse I shared - Mark 5:36 and I hope it helps each of you as you read it today. You will find this verse as part of the story recorded in Mark 5:21-24 & 35-43.
One of the religious leaders, Jairus runs to Jesus and calls him to come home to his very sick daughter to heal her. Jesus knew his aching heart and agreed to walk there with him.
As they were on their way, there were obstacles, delays and by then, sadly, 2 people came running up to tell Jairus that his darling daughter had, in fact, died. At this point in the story, I'd like you to think of something you have been praying about for a long time. A situation where you have been waiting for the Lord to act! Maybe you are praying for a suitable life partner, a job for your husband, about your wayward child or your own mental health. Something that is staring you in the face and screaming I AM DEAD.
We see that Jesus walks on with Jairus to his house where crowds are wailing around the body of the dead 12 year old. Jesus quietens the people and says these 5 words to Jairus.
“Don't be afraid, just believe.”
-Mark 5:36
In the past few months, this verse has helped me in more ways than one. In small ways as I started work in the beginning of the year, when I lacked the enthusiasm and drive to make my classes interesting and fun for the 6 year olds. And in big ways as I prayed about an overseas trip to meet with family, when I had a health setback and when I prayed for direction and guidance.
Can you hear Jesus speak the same words into your DEAD situation? Don't be afraid, just believe.
I love what Jesus did as he entered the funeral home. He quietened the moaners, told them to leave the room and took the little girl by the hand and said to her ‘Little girl I say to you, get up’ Immediately the girl stood up and walked around.
Now bring your ‘dead situation’ to Jesus- that difficult subject at University, that hard to deal with colleague or that dead ‘mother daughter’ relationship. Bring it to Jesus as you hear him say ‘ Don't be afraid, just believe’ and let him bring life, healing and restoration.
About the Author
Shoba Ranjitsingh is an architect, writer, a proud mother and an absolutely thrilled grandma to little Nivin and Kevin, who are now 5 and 2. Shoba enjoys studying the Bible and her training at Bible Study Fellowship as a leader in Auckland, New Zealand for 10 years has enabled her to now write and lead Women's Bible Studies. Helping women study and enjoy God's Word as they embrace everyday ordinary life is her prayer as a writer. Long walks, cakes, hymns, books, quiet family evenings, chatting with family across oceans describe Shoba who says she is ‘Blessed beyond measure’ and ‘Saved to serve’. This Chennai girl (at heart) loves saris, masala dosai and filter coffee as much as her cappuccino, date scone and op shop visits. In this phase of life, Ranjit and Shoba enjoy feeding the birds, smelling the roses, pursuing their hobbies and being grateful for all that God has called them to be and do. Shoba works as a Learning Support in a Primary School in Auckland and everything simple, honest and true bring her joy!