EXPOSITION:
Can you imagine what Jairus might have been going through when he approached Jesus that day? For a parent whose twelve-year-old only daughter was on the bed dying, it might have been really tough for him. Nevertheless, someway somehow, he manages to get Jesus ‘attention. As the NIV translation puts it, Jairus “… came and fell at Jesus’ feet, pleading with him to come to his house.” Unfortunately, before Jesus could get to his house, someone whispers to Jairus, the news of his daughter’s demise.
Jairus was not just any man. As the scripture indicates, he was a ruler of the synagogue. Not only that, but he was also someone who believed in the Lord Jesus. He had gone on his knees to plead with Lord to heal the daughter just as many believers will do. He had done everything he could to save his daughter, yet, she died. How difficult that might have been for him just as it will be for many other believers.
But through it all, Jesus had it figured out. When everything seemed to have been lost, He uttered those words that would put Jairus’ faith in him to an ultimate test, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.”
How many times have you prayed about that life-threatening ailment and yet, there seems to be no relief? Sometimes, it can get really difficult. But what can we learn from Jairus’ story? “When your back is against the wall and it looks as if it’s over,” Jesus can still make a way. Do not be afraid, just believe!