When Faith Touches The Divine

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Imagine, for a moment, a newborn baby. Science tells us that the first moments of life are critical—not just for feeding, but for touch. Nurses and doctors encourage skin-to-skin contact with the mother because something transformative happens in that moment. The baby feels warmth, safety, and love. Conversely, studies also reveal that children deprived of touch in early years often grow up with emotional and developmental challenges. Why? Because touch is not just a physical act—it’s a bridge of connection.
We live in a world where many are walking around untouched. Not untouched physically, but untouched emotionally, spiritually, and relationally. And when touch is absent, connection is absent. Where connection is absent, there’s a void—an emptiness that no material possession or title can fill. But when touch is present, it is proven that something powerful happens.
This fact brings us to Matthew 9:20-22, where we see the transformative power of touch in the life of a woman who had been longing for connection for twelve long years. Her story is not just a testament to the healing power of Jesus but also a profound illustration of what happens when human need reaches out to divine grace.
For twelve long years, she endured physical pain from a relentless condition. She suffered emotional anguish as she was ostracized by her community, labeled as unclean according to Jewish law. Financially, she was drained, having spent all her resources on treatments that left her worse off than before. Spiritually, I imagine in my mind that she may have felt distant from God, unable to participate in temple worship or community prayers. Her life was a picture of despair, yet within her heart burned a spark of hope—a hope that ultimately led her to seek out Jesus.
As Jesus moved through a bustling crowd of people on His way to heal Jairus’s daughter, this woman saw an opportunity. Despite the throngs of people, despite her fear of rejection, and despite her physical weakness, she had it made up and was determined in her heart that she would touch the hem of His garment. She didn’t need to draw attention to herself or even speak to Him directly; she believed that a mere touch would be enough. Such was her faith—a faith that moved her beyond fear and into action.
This moment in Scripture is rich with meaning for us today. It invites us to examine the barriers we face in our own lives—barriers of doubt, fear, or even unworthiness—and to consider how faith can help us overcome them. It reminds us that Jesus is never too busy, never too preoccupied, to respond to a heart that’s reaching out in faith. Above all, it reveals the compassionate heart of our Savior, who not only heals but restores to wholeness.
As we dive deep in this passage, I want to encourage you to open your hearts and minds to the lessons God has for us. What does it mean to have faith that moves us to action? How can we trust God to break through the barriers in our lives? And how can we experience the fullness of His healing and restoration? Let us journey together through this powerful story and discover anew what happens when faith touches the divine.
To fully grasp the weight of this miracle, we must immerse ourselves in the cultural, historical, and spiritual backdrop of the text. At this point in Jesus’ ministry, His reputation as a healer and teacher is spreading rapidly. Crowds follow Him wherever He goes, seeking relief from physical ailments, spiritual oppression, and the burdens of daily life. In Matthew 9, we find Jesus performing a series of miracles, each one highlighting His authority over nature, disease, and even death itself. He has calmed a storm, cast out demons, and forgiven sins. These acts not only confirm His divine identity but also provide glimpses of the Kingdom of God breaking into the world.
In the immediate context, Jesus is approached by Jairus, a respected synagogue leader, whose daughter is on the brink of death. Jairus’ plea is urgent, and Jesus sets out to accompany him. This journey is not just a physical movement; it symbolizes the Lord’s willingness to meet people in their moments of deepest need. The urgency of Jairus’ request creates a sense of tension and anticipation, underscoring the chaos of the crowd pressing in around Jesus.
Amid this scene, the focus shifts to a woman whose life has been marked by relentless suffering. For twelve years, she has endured a chronic condition that causes continuous bleeding. According to Leviticus 15:25-27, such a condition rendered her ceremonially unclean, isolating her from worship and community life. This was more than a physical ailment; it was a social and spiritual exile. Her condition would have made her untouchable in the eyes of her peers, and anyone who came into contact with her would also be considered unclean. Imagine for a moment the weight of such a stigma, the loneliness, and the despair that must have accompanied her every day.
Over the years, she sought out help from physicians, spending all she had in search of a cure. Yet, instead of finding relief, her condition worsened. The Gospel of Mark records that she “suffered much under many physicians" (Mark 5:26), highlighting the futility and frustration of her efforts. By the time she encounters Jesus, she is physically weakened, financially destitute, and emotionally drained. Yet, her faith remains. She hears about Jesus, the man who heals the sick and restores the broken, and hope stirs within her heart.
The woman’s decision to approach Jesus is both bold and risky. She defies the cultural and religious norms that dictate her isolation. She pushes through the crowd, determined to touch even the fringe of His garment. Why the fringe? Numbers 15:38-40 reveals that Jewish men wore tassels on their garments as a reminder to keep God’s commandments. By reaching for this symbol, the woman expresses her faith in Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises. Her act is not one of superstition but of profound belief that Jesus possesses the authority and compassion to heal her.
This moment is a turning point in the narrative. Amid the chaos of the crowd and the urgency of Jairus’ request, Jesus stops. He feels power go out from Him and turns to address the woman. This pause is significant, as it underscores Jesus’ ability to see and respond to individual faith, even in the midst of pressing demands. His words to the woman are tender and affirming: "Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well." By calling her "daughter," Jesus not only heals her physically but also restores her identity and dignity. In that moment, she is no longer defined by her illness or societal rejection. She is a beloved child of God, made whole by her faith.
This encounter invites us to reflect on the depth of Jesus’ compassion and the transformative power of faith. It challenges us to consider how we, like the woman, might reach out to Him in our moments of desperation. It reminds us (and this is my sermon in a sentence) that no matter how isolated or unworthy we may feel, Jesus is always ready to meet us with grace, healing, and restoration. The question I want to ask on the floor is what facts are presented in the text that helps us see what happens when faith touches the divine? There are 4 faith facts that were revealed right here in the text.

Fact 1: Faith Requires Action

The first lesson we learn from this woman is that faith requires action. Her story is one of both determination and courage. She did not merely wish for healing or resign herself to a life of suffering. Instead, she made a deliberate decision to act. Despite her physical weakness and the societal rejection she faced, she pushed through the crowd to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment. This was not a casual or impulsive act; it was a bold step fueled by deep conviction. She believed that even the slightest contact with Jesus would be enough to change her life. Her faith moved her beyond passive hope to active pursuit.
The significance of her action cannot be overstated. In her culture, as a woman considered ceremonially unclean, her presence in the crowd was a defiance of societal norms. She risked public humiliation and even rebuke for daring to approach Jesus in such a state. Yet, she pressed on, motivated by the belief that Jesus’ power could transcend her limitations. Her touch was more than physical; it was an act of faith that connected her with the divine. Her determination reminds us that faith often requires stepping out of our comfort zones, facing challenges, and taking risks.
Application:
Brothers and sisters, faith is not just believing that God can work; it is stepping out and acting on that belief. James 2:17 reminds us that "faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead." Consider the areas in your life where God may be calling you to take action. Are you holding back because of fear, doubt, or even uncertainty? Faith calls us to trust God enough to move forward, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Reflect on this: What if the woman had allowed fear or shame to hold her back? What blessings might she have missed? In our own lives, we too may miss the fullness of God’s promises if we fail to take that first step of faith. Whether it’s pursuing a calling, reconciling a broken relationship, or trusting God with a difficult decision, action is the evidence of genuine faith.
Faith also requires persistence. The crowd surrounding Jesus was a significant obstacle, yet the woman’s determination drove her to press on. Sometimes, our journey of faith will encounter barriers—discouragement, opposition, or delays. Like the woman, we must push through, trusting that Jesus is worth every effort. Hebrews 11:6 assures us that "without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."
Application:
Reflect for a moment and ask yourself what might "pressing through the crowd" look like in my own life? For some, it might mean persevering in prayer despite unanswered requests. For others, it could involve continuing to trust God in the face of setback, opposition or rejection. This woman’s faith reminds us that God honors those who diligently seek Him.
Is there anybody in the room that can testify to the fact that faith is not about having all the answers or guarantees. It’s about trusting in the character and power of God and taking the necessary steps in obedience. Just as the woman’s touch drew her closer to Jesus and resulted in her healing, our acts of faith draw us nearer to Him and open the door for His divine intervention. Let us be people whose faith leads us to action, knowing that when we move, God meets us right where we are. Look at you neighbor and tell them “Faith requires Action.”

Fact 2: Faith Transcends Barriers

The woman’s journey to Jesus was fraught with challenges. First, there was the physical barrier of the crowd. The streets were packed with people, all vying for Jesus’ attention, making it difficult for anyone to get close. For a woman weakened by twelve years of constant bleeding, the physical exertion alone must have been daunting. Yet, she did not let the press of the crowd deter her. She pushed through, driven by the belief that her healing was within reach.
Second, there were societal barriers. As someone deemed ceremonially unclean, she was not supposed to be in public, let alone in a crowd where her touch could render others unclean according to Jewish law. The stigma attached to her condition would have made her hesitant, perhaps even fearful, of being recognized. But her desperation outweighed her fear. She defied cultural expectations, determined that her need for healing was greater than the shame society had placed upon her.
Third, there were emotional and psychological barriers. Years of suffering, isolation, and failed attempts at finding a cure could have left her feeling hopeless. It would have been easy for her to give in to despair, to believe that her situation was beyond redemption. Yet, she held onto a spark of hope, believing that Jesus had the power to do what no one else could.
Her story teaches us that faith has the power to break through every barrier—whether physical, societal, or emotional. It reminds us that no obstacle is too great for a heart that truly believes. Her courage and determination are a testament to the kind of faith that refuses to be stopped, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Application:
What barriers are holding you back from approaching Jesus? Is it the weight of past failures, fear of judgment, or feelings of unworthiness? Like the woman, we may face obstacles that seem insurmountable. But her story reminds us that faith is the key to overcoming. Hebrews 12:1 encourages us to "lay aside every weight" and run the race before us with perseverance. What weights are you carrying today that need to be laid down so you can move forward in faith?
Consider the societal norms or expectations that might be hindering your walk with Christ. Are you hesitant to speak openly about your faith because of fear of rejection or ridicule? This woman’s boldness challenges us to live out our faith authentically, regardless of what others may think. Romans 1:16 declares, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes."
Reflect on the emotional and spiritual barriers that may be keeping you from fully trusting in Jesus. Are there areas in your life where despair has taken root? Remember, the woman’s condition seemed hopeless, but her faith in Jesus brought her healing. No matter how long you have been struggling, Jesus stands ready to meet you at the point of your need.
Faith that transcends barriers requires perseverance and trust. It calls us to push past the noise and distractions of life, to defy the limitations imposed by others, and to believe that God’s power is greater than any obstacle we face. When we take that step of faith, we discover that Jesus is always near, ready to respond to those who seek Him with all their hearts.

Fact 3: Faith Receives Divine Attention

When the woman touched Jesus’ garment, something extraordinary happened. Here we are, and Jesus is attempting to make his way to heal Jarius’ child.  Amid the crowd pressing against Him from all sides, Jesus felt power go out from Him. He then stops, turns, and asks, "Who touched Me?" This question may have seemed surprising, given the chaos of the moment. Yet it highlights a profound truth: here it is, faith never goes unnoticed by God. Look at your neighbor and tell them ‘faith never goes unnoticed.” While the disciples were bewildered by His question, Jesus knew that a unique act of faith had occurred, and He wanted to acknowledge it.
This moment is deeply significant. Jesus could have let the healing pass without comment, allowing the woman to slip away unnoticed. But He chose to pause and address her personally. Why? Because Jesus’ mission goes beyond physical healing; He seeks to restore, affirm, and build a relationship with those who come to Him in faith. By stopping and calling the woman forward, He not only confirmed her healing but also validated her faith in front of everyone. This public acknowledgment broke through her years of shame and isolation, restoring her dignity and identity.
Jesus’ words to the woman are filled with tenderness and affirmation: "Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well." By calling her "daughter," He establishes a personal connection, affirming her as a beloved child of God. This was more than a physical healing—it was a spiritual and emotional restoration. Jesus’ attention to her faith reminds us that God’s love is deeply personal. He sees each individual, hears their cries, and responds to their faith with compassion and care.
Application:
Brothers and sisters, this story reminds us that faith catches the attention of heaven. In a world filled with distractions and demands, God is never too busy to notice your faith. Psalm 34:15 declares, "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are attentive to their cry." Even in the midst of the pressing crowd, Jesus saw the woman’s act of faith and responded to it. Take comfort in knowing that your faith, no matter how small or faltering, is seen and valued by God.
Reflect on the personal nature of Jesus’ response. He did not merely heal the woman; He affirmed her worth and identity. In our lives, Jesus desires to do the same. Are there areas where you feel unseen or overlooked? Remember that God knows you intimately. Matthew 10:30 assures us that even the hairs on our head are numbered. Approach Him with confidence, knowing that He delights in responding to the faith of His children.
Consider the significance of Jesus’ public acknowledgment of the woman’s healing. It was not just for her benefit but also for those around her. By declaring her healed, Jesus dismantled the stigma and shame that had surrounded her. In our own faith journey, we too are called to bear witness to God’s work in our lives. Sharing our testimonies can inspire and encourage others to trust in Him. How might your story of faith impact those around you?
Faith that receives divine attention is not about making grand gestures or being perfect. It is about humbly reaching out to God with trust and belief in His power and goodness. When we approach Him in faith, we can be assured that He sees us, hears us, and responds in ways that bring healing, restoration, and affirmation.

Fact 4: Faith Brings Wholeness

When Jesus declared, “Your faith has made you well,” He spoke words that reached beyond the woman’s immediate need for physical healing. The Greek word for “made well,” sozo, carries a profound depth. It means more than just physical recovery—it signifies salvation, deliverance, and complete restoration. This word is often used in the New Testament to describe the saving work of Christ. In this moment, the woman experienced not only the cessation of her bleeding but also the transformation of her entire being. Her body was healed, her spirit was renewed, and her relationship with God was restored.
This declaration reminds us that Jesus’ mission is holistic. He is not merely concerned with addressing surface issues or alleviating temporary discomfort. Instead, He seeks to bring comprehensive healing and wholeness to every aspect of our lives. For this woman, her encounter with Jesus reversed years of suffering and shame. Her physical condition was healed, her social isolation ended, and her identity as a beloved daughter of God was affirmed. She left that encounter not only healthy but whole—restored in every sense of the word.
The wholeness Jesus offers extends to all areas of our lives. Physical ailments may be the most visible, but many of us carry unseen wounds—emotional scars, spiritual emptiness, relational brokenness. Faith in Jesus addresses these deeper needs. It reconnects us with God, offering forgiveness for sin, peace for troubled hearts, and hope for the future. When we reach out to Him in faith, as the woman did, we open the door for His transformative power to work in every part of our being.
Application:
First, consider the completeness of the healing Jesus offers. Are there areas of your life where you have sought only partial relief? Perhaps you have prayed for a specific situation to change but have not surrendered your heart fully to God’s work in your life. Jesus wants to bring wholeness, not just temporary solutions. He invites us to trust Him with every burden—physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual. What areas of your life might you be holding back from His healing touch?
Second, reflect on the implications of sozo in your spiritual journey. This word reminds us that faith in Jesus leads to salvation. It is not just about what He can do for us in this life but what He has secured for us in eternity. Romans 10:9 assures us, “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved (sozo).” The woman’s faith brought her immediate healing, but it also pointed to the greater truth of Jesus as the Savior who reconciles us to God. Have you placed your faith in Him as your Lord and Savior? If not, today is the day to reach out to Him and experience the fullness of His salvation.
Third, consider how this story speaks to your identity. The woman had been defined by her illness and social rejection for twelve years. Yet, in one moment, Jesus redefined her as “daughter.” This title was not just an expression of kindness; it was a declaration of her restored relationship with God. In the same way, our faith in Jesus transforms our identity. We are no longer defined by our past mistakes, failures, or the labels others place on us. Through faith, we become children of God—beloved, accepted, and whole. How does this truth impact the way you see yourself and your relationship with God?
Finally, consider the ongoing journey of wholeness. While the woman’s healing was immediate, our own experience of restoration may be a process. We live in a broken world, and some wounds take time to heal. Yet, even in the waiting, we can trust that Jesus is at work, shaping us into His image and preparing us for the fullness of His Kingdom. Philippians 1:6 assures us, “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” What steps can you take today to cooperate with God’s work of restoration in your life?
Faith that brings wholeness is not about achieving perfection but about trusting the One who is perfect. It is about allowing Jesus to address every aspect of our being, bringing healing, restoration, and salvation. The woman’s story reminds us that when we reach out to Jesus, we encounter a Savior who doesn’t just fix what is broken but makes us whole. Let us be people who trust Him with our whole lives, confident that His power and compassion are more than enough.
As I draw to my close, let us take a moment to reflect on the profound truth of what happens when faith touches the divine. Throughout Scripture, we see that God responds to the reaching hand of faith. Whether it was the woman who touched the hem of Jesus' garment, blind Bartimaeus crying out for mercy, or the centurion who believed in Jesus’ authority to heal, each act of faith was met with God’s divine power and compassion.
But the most significant and transformative moment of faith touching the divine is found at the cross. The cross is the ultimate intersection where humanity’s greatest need and God’s boundless love meet. It is where Jesus, fully divine and fully human, stretched out His arms to bridge the gap between a holy God and a broken world.
When Jesus died on the cross, He not only bore our sins but also opened the door for every act of faith to connect us to God’s heart. The woman’s touch of faith brought her healing, but the touch of faith in the finished work of the cross brings eternal life. The blood that flowed from the cross is the assurance that no matter how far we’ve fallen or how desperate our situation may seem, God’s grace is sufficient to meet us.
The cross teaches us that faith is not about how strong we are or how perfectly we live, but about trusting in the One who was willing to lay down His life for us. It is a reminder that God has already made the first move. He has already extended His divine hand toward us through Jesus Christ.
So today, if you feel unworthy, if you feel broken, or if you feel like you’ve been reaching out in faith without seeing results, let the cross be your encouragement. The cross is proof that God is always near. He is not far off, waiting for us to earn His love; He has already poured it out. All He asks is that we come in faith, believing in the power of His Son.
When faith touches the divine, miracles happen.When faith touches the divine, Healing flows. When faith touches the divine, Restoration begins. And at the cross, we see the greatest miracle of all: the reconciliation of humanity to God. For it was at the cross, Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice. At the cross, he died for your sins and mines. At the cross, they hung him high. At the cross, they stretched him wide. At the cross, he hung his head. For you and me he died. Is there anybody here that can appreciate the ultimate sacrifice made at the cross. Look at your neighbor and tell them it was at the cross. Living he loved me, dying her saved barred he took my sins far away. But im so glad that he didn’t stay there. Because early. I said early one Sunday morning. He got up. (didnt he do it?) with all power.I said all power.. ALL POWER in His hands didnt he do it.
Im done, but when you leave here today leave with a renewed commitment to reach out in faith, not just for what we need but in gratitude for what Jesus has already done. Let us carry the hope of the cross, knowing that faith will always find its answer in the One who gave His life for us.
And as you step into this week, may your faith grow stronger, may your trust deepen, and may your life be a reflection of the truth that when faith touches the divine, everything changes.
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