In the crowd that day there was a woman who for twelve years had been afflicted with hemorrhages. She had spent every penny she had on doctors but not one had been able to help her. She slipped in from behind and touched the edge of Jesus’ robe. 

  (Luke 8:43-44, MSG)

We continue this week on our journey through Lent with the theme “Everything Changes.”  Throughout this season we will encounter some people whose lives were changed when they met Jesus along the road.  Drastic, unbelievable healings that changed the course of people’s lives.  People of no significance who were not even given a name.  People who were invisible to society, the social outcasts.  Those who resigned themselves to live life alienated from family, alone and afraid. 

Our encounter this week takes place in Galilee as Jesus was walking with a crowd pressing upon him.  It is a story of interruption, as Jesus was on his way to heal a young dying girl, another woman was healed.  It is a story of a woman filled with desperation and a strong faith who reached out with her last bit of hope. You can read her story in Luke 8:43-47 (the entire story is Luke 8:40-56).

How many times have you felt the weight of someone’s interruption on your already busy day? How many times have you sensed your interruption was a burden to someone when you have reached out?  I think it is safe to say we have all experienced both scenarios.  The deep sigh that comes when we answer the phone or the knots in our stomach as we dial the phone.  Dare I ask…how many times have we considered ourselves a burden as we reach out to God?

This is my favorite encounter story that is found in three of the Gospel accounts of Jesus.  I love this story because it is such a powerful reminder that though Jesus may be in a hurry…he is never too busy!  Jesus was interrupted while on an urgent journey when a woman touched the hem of his cloak.  He stopped in his tracks and looked around.  There she sat, healed, restored, and frightened.  Jesus saw her, listened to her story, restored her dignity and gave her a name…Daughter!  And once he had given her his full attention, then he continued on with urgency down the road.

Jesus always has time to hear a story, to offer healing, and to bestow a blessing.  He is never bothered by our sense of urgency.  All people – clean or unclean, man or woman, old or young, rich or poor, Gentile or Jew – are equal recipients of his time and attention.  May we never forget that!

Blessings,
Pastor Jenni

When the woman realized that she couldn’t remain hidden, she knelt trembling before him. In front of all the people, she blurted out her story—why she touched him and how at that same moment she was healed. 
Jesus said, “Daughter, you took a risk trusting me, and now you’re healed and whole. Live well, live blessed!” 

(Luke 8:47-48, MSG)