Our scripture today is Matthew 9:22 (MEV).
But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her, He said, “Daughter, be of good comfort. Your faith has made you well.” And the woman was made well instantly.
As I remember this from Sunday School it was a story of miraculous healing and Jesus’ love, which is not a bad understanding. However, there is a lot more going on here than my elementary school memory of this passage. Because of her condition she was unclean under Jewish law. (Before we get too sanctimonious here, let’s remember we still protect ourselves from exposure to blood.) This meant no one could touch her and she could touch no one. She took a great risk in her faith, believing that instead of her touch making Jesus unclean, His power would make her clean. His power indeed heals her, but He interacts with her, bringing her back into the community. Jesus says “Your faith has made you well”, something we need to remember today.
Loving Lord, we look to You in faith for physical and spiritual healing, not just for ourselves, but for all Your children. Bless us to carry Your love to the world. Amen.
