These past twelve days I have been recovering from what
was supposed to be a “minor” surgery to remove the “hardware” from a previous
surgery just below my knee. It had done its job after five years, and would be
in the way of a future knee replacement, so I was very grateful to have it
arranged while my husband was off work for the week. All was going as expected
for the first couple days until I awakened early in the morning of day three
and discovered I was shivering uncontrollably – I had a high fever! So, at 6AM, my husband took me to the ER and after X-rays and blood work, the
doctor concluded I had a post-surgery wound infection. Following two types of
IV antibiotics, I was sent home with a prescription for ten days of antibiotics
and an order to return the next morning for more IV antibiotics. By the time I
returned home I was miserable, exhausted, had no appetite and no energy. I was
so disappointed that an infection could set me back so far when really my leg
was pain-free and not the big problem!
On Tuesday of this past week, I was finally able to open
my Bible and actually read something and feel I was absorbing worthwhile
nourishment for my weary soul. The Lord reminded me of a story which only
comprises seven verses in the whole of Scripture and they are found in three
different books – Matthew, Mark, and Luke. As I studied this little account it
was very interesting to see how each author told basically the same story but
with slightly varied wording and perspectives. All three men were disciples of
Jesus and heard and saw first-hand the ministry of this man who claimed to be
the Messiah, the promised Saviour of all who would believe in Him.
“As soon as they left the
synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew.
Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her.
So He went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she
began to wait on them.” (Mark 1:29-30, NIV)
Prior to this event, Jesus had recently called the first
of His disciples and He was teaching in the temple. While there, they and many
others had witnessed Jesus cast an evil spirit out of a man with an authority
they had never seen before. This created quite a buzz and news spread quickly
about this man who “gives orders to evil spirits and they obey Him.” (1:27-28)
Then Jesus entered the privacy of Simon’s home (he was
later called Peter) and we learn his mother-in-law was very ill. Luke, a
physician, refers to it as a “high fever”, so she really was drained of all
energy, appetite, and no doubt shivering uncontrollably. In those days, such a
fever could quickly lead to death without the modern medical interventions we
have today, especially in developed areas of our world. I’m so grateful for the
medical team which so quickly diagnosed and treated my high fever and
infection!
I love the way Jesus responded to their request to help
her! First, He saw her (Matthew 8:14). Jesus always sees when we are suffering
and in need of help. Nothing escapes His view and He is always there for us.
Secondly, He touched her on the hand and helped
her up. Jesus knew the comfort that comes from physical contact. It
communicates, “I care about you and I am here to help in whatever way I can.”
The gentle hand on my shoulder as the nurse prepared me for administering those
stinging IV antibiotics, the kindness and helpful gestures of the X-ray
technicians, and the handshake and eye contact of the ER doctor all helped to ease my
discomfort and anxiety.
Thirdly, He spoke to the fever and commanded it
to leave the woman (Luke 4:39). There is ultimate authority in the name of
Jesus and we can exercise that power as we pray for those who are ill and
suffering. I’m so thankful for the dozens of caring friends and family who are
continuing to pray, in Jesus’ name, for my healing.
Luke records her healing was immediate and she “at once”
got up and waited on them, probably preparing a meal. I’m twelve days out and
still unable to put a meal on the table! So, there’s no doubt
in my mind of the miraculous and instantaneous healing Jesus performed that
day. He still has that power today and though He often allows our healing to
take much longer, or not at all, I take great comfort in the fact that He sees
me, touches
me, and speaks with authority into my daily circumstances! I’m trusting
that He knows best and will use whatever I go through to demonstrate His power,
glory, and divine plan.
Until next Sunday,
Kathy
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