Tuesday: 4^th Week in Ordinary Time-B

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 attitude

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 insensitivity 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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