Scripture: Mark 5:21-43

Thoughts:   Jesus lived in a society which valued sons.  Sons could carry on the family name; they could work in the family business or on the family farm.  Bluntly, fathering sons was considered a measure of a man’s virility.

So it is endearing to hear Jairus speak lovingly of his little daughter.  Our hearts hurt with his as he implores Jesus to come and heal his precious daughter.

We can picture Jairus guiding Jesus through the throngs of people, hurrying desperately to his daughter’s bedside.  When Jesus stopped to acknowledge the touch of a poor, ill woman, Jairus must have wanted to scream, “Never mind her!  We’re wasting time!  We must hurry!  Come on!”

We want attention, and we want it now – full and undivided attention.

Discussion:   During an average day, what events and what people receive our full attention?

Activity:   This Sunday, concentrate on the words of the congregational hymns.