Thoughts for the Day

When the whole crowd saw Jesus, they were immediately overcome with awe, and they ran forward to greet him. He asked them, 'What are you arguing about with them?'

Someone from the crowd answered him, 'Teacher, I brought you my son; he has a spirit that makes him unable to speak; and whenever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, but they could not do so.'....

Jesus asked the father, 'How long has this been happening to him?' And he said, 'From childhood. It has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us.' Jesus said to him, 'If you are able! - All things can be done for the one who believes.' Immediately the father of the child cried out, 'I believe'; help my unbelief!'

(New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

The poor man is desperate, he knows his sick son will drown or fall into a fire at some point. The disciples have been unable to help, and he now turns to Jesus with a heartfelt cry for help. We can learn something from this father, and apply to our lives:

• He is unable to help himself!
• He wants something from Jesus!
• He declares his belief in Jesus, but asks for help when he has any doubts.

Result: His son is healed.

Friday 11th September, follow up thoughts

Lord Jesus,
there are times when we are
in desperate need of Your help;
when we know we cannot go it alone;
but yet our faith burns dimly.
Strengthen our faith
to pass our troubles onto You,
knowing that You will shoulder
them for us.
Amen.