Tuesday: 4^th Week in Ordinary Time-C

I Reading: Hebrews 12:1-4: Who shall keep running steadily in the race we have started.

Gospel: Mark 5:21-43: Little girl I tell you get up.

The Approaches that lay hold Jesus’ authority: How to approach Jesus

How can a person lay hold of Jesus and his power? This passage deals with the desperate and hopeless person; it shows how the desperate person can approach Jesus and secure his help in any situation.

1.    The crowds gathered around Jesus (v.21)

2.    Scene 1: A rulers desperate approach (22-26)

a.    A selfless attitude

b.    A humble attitude

c.     A pleading attitude3

d.    An extant and believing attitude

e.     The result: Jesus grants the desperate request

3.    Scene 2: A woman’s hopeless approach (25-34)

a.    A last resort attitude

b.    A shy, embarrassed, unworthy attitude

c.     An expectant, believing attitude

d.    A confessing attitude

i.                 The cost of service to Jesus

ii.               The 3insensitivity of the disciples

iii.             The confession of the woman

iv.             The result: Jesus grants the hopeless request

4.    Scene 3: A ruler’s believing approach (35-43)

a.    Not a fearful, despairing attitude

i.                 Devastating circumstances

ii.               The answer to the terrible circumstances: Jesus’ challenge

b.    Not a wailing, whining attitude

i.                 Social customs and influences: to express hopelessness

ii.               The answer: Jesus’ comfort and assurances

c.     Not a sarcastic, sceptical attitude

d.    An obedient attitude: the parents follow Jesus despite the sarcasm

e.     Jesus grants the believer’s request

i.                 The power of Jesus

ii.               The amazement of the family

iii.             The thoughtfulness of Jesus

Thought: It is the sense of unworthiness and hopelessness that touches the heart of Jesus. (Ps 34:18; 51:17)

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