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When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.

 

These verses follow the feeding of the 5,000, and Jesus walking on water. Gennesaret is a harbor town near Capernaum, where Jesus’ ministry was initiated. Stories about Jesus’ miracles and healings were known here. Most likely some of the people who recognized him were part of the 5,000 he fed the day before.

What faith these people had, and what a good example they laid for us. They didn’t just keep Jesus’ actions to themselves, they spread the word about Jesus to the surrounding country, they brought the sick to him, they begged Jesus to help, they had faith that just touching the edge of his cloak would bring healing. Jesus did the rest.

That is our mission in a nutshell. Spread the Word, Invite, Pray, Trust. It is also a reminder to us that we can bring our own burdens to him and trust in his ability to bring us healing and transformation.

Lord Jesus, May we never underestimate the miracles you can perform in our lives. Help us spread your name to others and lead them to know you. Thank you for always hearing us as we lift our burdens, and the burdens of those surrounding us, up to you. Amen.

Kris Messmer kmmessmer@charter.net