Clay in the Hands

One of my readings today comes from Mark 1. In verses 29 through 31, we find an account of Jesus leaving the synagogue with his disciples and entering the home of Simon. Once they got to the house, Jesus was quickly informed that Simon’s mother-in-law was sick in bed with a fever. The first thing Jesus did was to go to her, take her by the hand and help her up. We are told the fever left her as Jesus helped her up. Then we are told that the woman began serving them.

As I have reflected on this passage, so many things have come to mind. Why had no one told Jesus about her before now? Why was she sick? What was her relationship with Jesus prior to this occurrence? Why did Jesus choose to heal her? Why did she immediately begin to serve them?

One might think that Jesus healed her so that she could get busy doing what hosts did in that day and time – serve the guests. But that is not the idea we get from this passage. The heart of the savior was to heal and bring relief. The response of the one healed was grateful relief and a desire to serve.

This story reminds me of so many other healing accounts in the Gospels. Within the various healing stories, some of those healed went about their day and we don’t hear of them again. And then there those who turn to say “Thank you,” and express a desire to follow the healer.

Today, each of us come to this text from different places. Some are need of some sort of healing – whether it be physical, emotional or spiritual. Some are in the pit and need rescuing. And then there are some of us who are on solid ground and things are going smoothly.

For those of us in need of a touch from Jesus, be assured it will come – he reaches out his hand even now. What will you do in response? Will you go about the rest of your day like normal – or will you turn and offer thanks and praise?

For those who have things going your way today, realize that Jesus has given you the ability to take in breath, yet another day, and you are able to read these words. All life is a gift from the King. What will you do as your response to his care?

Simon’s mother-in-law got up and began serving them. May we follow her lead and serve today out of gratitude and worship for what Jesus has done for us.