06/03/2026
Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Hebrews 10:24
The woman was desperate. Desperate enough to go out in the crowd. The same crowd that looked upon her with distaste and avoidance. She was considered unclean and had been living ostracized from family and friends and even places of worship for over 12 years. She had a bleeding disorder that no doctors could cure. But she had heard about Jesus ... And she believed with all her heart that He could heal her. If only she could just touch the hem of his garment. Just the hem...have you ever wondered why she chose the hem? I think it was pure humility. Her face and body lowered, scared and her heart beating wildly with hope and belief that she could be cured by Jesus, reaching out, fingers shaking and barely brushing the fabric. Instantly, she was made whole! Jesus stopped. He knew. He asked who had touched Him. (Luke 8:45) After years of rejection, the woman was reluctant to bring attention to herself but she spoke up though she was shaking with fear and she told Him her story, her whole story. And He listened. With all His attention to every word she said. How long had it been since someone had listened to her? A miracle had healed her body, His listening had restored her dignity but what He did next she never forgot! He affirmed her by calling her "Daughter"!! "Daughter be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace." Luke 8:48 Sometimes that is all it takes to give encouragement. Ask to hear their story and listen without interruption. Give the rariest of gifts, your full attention.
There is joy in the Lord. Let's share it!
