What does Jairus' plea in Mark 5:23 teach about seeking Jesus in crises? Jairus in Context Mark 5:23: “and pleaded earnestly with Him, ‘My little daughter is near death. Please come and lay Your hands on her, so that she will be healed and live.’” • A synagogue leader, Jairus faces what every parent dreads—his child is dying. • He leaves the bedside, seeks out Jesus, and falls at His feet (v. 22). • The narrative is historical, eyewitness testimony (cf. Mark 5:37-43), underscoring the reliability of Scripture. A Plea Marked by Humility • “Pleaded earnestly” shows unembarrassed desperation; Jairus sets aside status and reputation. • Falling at Jesus’ feet (v. 22) mirrors other acts of worship (Matthew 2:11; Luke 17:16). • True seeking of Christ begins when pride bows to need (James 4:6-7). Faith under Pressure • Jairus believes Jesus’ touch alone can conquer death’s approach. • His faith is specific: “Lay Your hands… so that she will be healed and live.” • Hebrews 11:6—“without faith it is impossible to please Him”—is lived out in real time. • Even after delay (vv. 35-36), Jairus keeps following; crisis faith perseveres. Lessons for Our Crises • Go straight to Jesus first, not last (Psalm 46:1). • Bring the whole truth of the situation; He can handle our urgency (Philippians 4:6). • Ask boldly yet submissively—Jairus makes a request, not a demand (Hebrews 4:16). • Intercede for the helpless; crises often involve others we love (Mark 2:3-5). • Trust His timing; delays are not denials (John 11:6-7, 40). • Expect resurrection power—Jesus still turns death-sentences into testimonies (Ephesians 1:19-20). Invitation to Personal Application • Identify the urgent need pressing on your heart today. • Consciously place yourself at Jesus’ feet in humble faith. • Verbalize a clear request, confident in His authority and compassion. • Refuse to let circumstantial delays erode trust; keep walking with Him until He speaks the final word. |
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