mark 5:21-43

Foreshadowing Resurrection, by Mark Pekar

In this sermon we pause to consider the destruction of Jerusalem, the loss of Jairus' daughter, and the woman with hemorrhages. We consider how each of these events creates distance from memories and imperils the dreams of the future. Yet in all of this God is present bringing goodness from the ashes of our despair.

Proper 8 (13) Fifth Sunday after Pentecost (Year B, 2020-2021)

2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43

When Jesus sails back across the sea he is quickly surrounded by a crowd, but it's the stories of two desperate people we are drawn into.  Jairus, whose twelve-year-old daughter's life is in the balance, and a woman whose illness throughout those same twelve years has left her penniless and alone.  We discover three kinds of faith:  Finding Faith, Focused Faith (both of which can be surprisingly fragile), and Following Faith.  All three kinds of faith are viable, and one is especially rooted into God's plan more than our own need.  Jesus' words, "Do not fear; only believe," still ring today, and are re-awakening dreams and dreamers!

Proper 8 - Sunday after Pentecost (Year B)
2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43