A Savior Who Cares About You

A Savior who Cares about You Mark 5:21-43 Context • Roughly half-way through Jesus’s earthly ministry. His popularly, especially in Galilee, is reaching its peak. • Mark 5 deliberately “sandwiches” these two miracles because he wants us to compare and contrast them. • Mark’s style is asymmetrical – fast-moving narrative often slows down for key details that color the story beautifully. • Today, as we prepare to take the Lord’s table, I want us to focus on the Person hosting the meal. • After surveying the details, we will highlight 8 facets of a Savior who cares about you. Jairus and His Daughter (5:21-24) • The crowd waiting at the shore had a prominent member of the community at its head – Jairus, a synagogue ruler. • Synagogue rulers were typically laymen on the wealthier side who cared for the physical synagogue building. • Jairus’s “little daughter” connotes a particularly close connection – she is his only daughter (Luke 8:42). • Jairus is beyond human help; his bowing is unusual and his faith is certain. The Woman and Her Flow (5:25-34) • The woman had a prolonged and debilitating menstrual issue that excluded her from Jewish religious society (Leviticus 15:19-24). • Doctors have impoverished her to no avail – she, too, is beyond human help. • She believes in the healing power of Jesus and wants nothing more than an anonymous healing. • Her trembling fear is fueled by a combination of emotions: awe, gratitude, worry, shame, etc. • Jesus’s peace means more than a simple “farewell.” Talitha and Her Life (5:35-43) • Jesus “overheard” – the word can also mean “disregard.” Mark probably chose the word for both its nuances. • Jesus’s commands are poignantly present – be pushing back against the fear and just keep exercising the same faith that brought you to me in the first place. • The immediate presence of the paid mourners demonstrate Jairus’s respect in the community; their scorn connotes the worst kind of cynicism. • Jesus’s strict orders, though practically challenging, insulated Talitha from future attacks (John 12:9-11) 8 Facets of a Savior who Cares 1. Jesus takes special time for these daughters – He isn’t looking for people who can help him. 2. Jesus is never bothered or disinterested but personally engages with those who trust him. 3. Jesus blesses those humble enough to bow at his feet. 4. Jesus moves toward uncleanness because He can’t be diminished by it. Everything he touches becomes whole and holy. 8 Facets of a Savior who Cares 5. Jesus values your faith over your physical condition. 6. Jesus isn’t interested in efficiency the way we think of it as 21st Century Americans – He wants your worship and affection. He draws out certain situations to increase your worship, faith, and dependence. 7. Jesus has different paths for different people: one daughter was drawn into the public eye while another daughter was told to stay out of it. 8. Jesus is most interested in your eternal safety.