Gospel: Matthew 9:18-26
While Jesus was speaking to them, an official of the synagogue came up to him, bowed before him and said, “My daughter has just died, but come and place your hands on her, and she will live.” Jesus stood up and followed him with his disciples.
Then a woman, who had suffered from a severe bleeding for twelve years, came up from behind and touched the edge of his cloak; for she thought, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.” Jesus turned, saw her and said, “Courage, my daughter, your faith has saved you.” And from that moment, the woman was cured.
When Jesus arrived at the official’s house and saw the flute players and the excited crowd, he said, “Get out of here! The girl is not dead. She is only sleeping!” And they laughed at him. But once the crowd had been turned out, Jesus went in and took the girl by the hand, and she stood up. The news of this spread through the whole area.

Reflections
“If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.”
Two characters in today’s gospel have their own encounter of the healing power of Jesus: (1) an official of the synagogue, interceding on behalf of the dead daughter, approached Jesus in faith; and, (2) a woman who stealthily came to Jesus and secretly touched His cloak. In both cases the healing power of Jesus is sought. It is clear to them that what they have suffered from has become unbearable, and they are convinced that Jesus can de- liver them favorable result.
Both may not even be aware that faith is the requisite to grant their intent. Nevertheless, they possess it even before their actual approach to Jesus.
The condition so that Jesus power may operate on the plea of the official and the desire of the woman (and in our life too) is faith. The only way Jesus’ touch may effect healing (or some change) is through an act of faith. Faith prepares the ground so that the love of God can work in their/our lives. Faith is the key that opens up the door of heaven, so that we receive God’s grace. By being faithful, we share in the heavenly gifts.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2019