I.
Let’s get started with this week’s Scripture passage by paying attention to who we find mentioned in the passage. Notice who is mentioned and see how each behaves and what they need and how they go about seeking what they need.

II.
Matthew 9:18-26

While he was saying these things to them, suddenly a leader of the synagogue came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” And Jesus got up and followed him, with his disciples. Then suddenly a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his cloak, for she said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be made well.” Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. When Jesus came to the leader’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, “Go away; for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. And the report of this spread throughout that district.

III.
It seems likely Jesus is in his hometown (Matthew 9:1). He has already been busy healing a man, inviting Matthew to join his group of disciples and speaking to John the Baptizer’s disciples about fasting and wineskins.

Oh, he has also already caused some upset for the Pharisees.

IV.
Who do you see?

I notice a father, who is a community leader and probably prominent person in the local synagogue, asking Jesus to help his deceased daughter; a woman with a bleeding disorder (and therefore a person considered “unclean” and therefore to be excluded from the community by the Pharisees) sneaking up on Jesus to be healed, maybe hoping Jesus or others will not notice her; and then the crowd of mourners and flute players. And don’t miss seeing Jesus’ disciples are with him.

V.
What impressions do you form of each person you meet in this scene?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}