On this Fifth Sunday after Pentecost we will again be reading from the Gospel according to Mark. This week, we will hear two stories of faith and healing: one of the leaders of the synagogue pleads for the life of his daughter and a woman who has been sick for a dozen years. We will explore the topics of faith, prayers and life...and how these three important aspects of our life are woven together.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Mark. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Mark 5:21-43).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
After reading the story of healing of both the woman and the daughter of Jairus, reflect on the following: what motivated each person to ask Jesus for healing?, what risks did each person take in asking Jesus for the healing miracle? and what risks do we take in our lives when we ask Jesus for something?
After reading the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, reflect on the character of the woman: her courage, her determination, her risk taking (especially as she will make Jesus impure). What do you think of the idea that Jesus "makes a public acknowledgment of a private healing"and how does this restore the woman to her community, in ways beyond physical health?
After reading the "WHERE..." paragraph below, reflect on Jesus' actions to reach out and heal people from all walks of life. Do you agree with the author's statement, "in the kingship of Jesus the need of the marginalized and vulnerable is addressed before the need of the celebrated and powerful."...or, do you think the needs of all people are addressed with equality, regardless of power, position or status?
After reading the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below, reflect on the question: "how should we pray with faith, knowing our prayer may be answered as we wish?"
After reading the "NOW WHAT..." paragraph below, reflect on examples from your own life where you have sought healing of some kind. What were the risks involved in seeking this help?
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