“When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said, “Don’t cry.” Then He came up and touched the open coffin, and the pallbearers stopped.” (Luke 7:13-15 HCSB)
Jesus was walking by a funeral procession. A widow’s only son was being carried out for burial. Jesus had compassion on her and raised the young man from the dead.
Most biblical stories about healing are based on faith--either the person requiring healing or someone close to that person has faith. Usually, human faith plus the power of God results in healing and restoration. This incident is different. Nothing is said about the faith of the dead man or his mother. No one asks Jesus for help. This is not the usual ‘faith healing; it would be more accurate to label this ‘compassion healing.’
This miracle was very lopsided. It was all Christ. The only thing that the pall bearers did was 'stand still'. They stopped the procession so that Jesus could restore the young man. The dead man sat up and talked. Everyone recognized that God was at work among them.
Jesus can restore people even when faith is inadequate or nonexistent. Healing can be based on God's compassion and mercy alone. It is encouraging to know that Jesus can revive those in whom the Spirit is inanimate. Some of us are called to be pallbearers--to carry those who are unresponsive. Yet, we are unsure of what to do and where to go. All that is required of us is to stand still as Jesus approaches. Be still and recognize God’s power at work.
Lord, have mercy on us. Revive those who are unresponsive to faith and hope. Help us to be peaceful and trust You.
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