I know that you’ve heard the story of the healing of Jairus’ daughter umpteen million times. You’ve probably told the story many a time of the young lady who was at death’s door yourself in your children’s ministry through a puppet routine or skit. But, as I was reading through the story earlier today, I heard the Holy Spirit emphasize something that was a fresh, on-time word to me. Let me summarize this word in just a few short sentences.
You know the story found in Mark 5:22-24,35-43 and so I won’t retell the story. But, please take a minute and read these two verses.
“Taking hold of the girl’s hand, he said to her, “Talitha, koum!”
(This means, “Young girl, I tell you to stand up!”)
At once the girl stood right up and began walking. (She was twelve years old.)
Everyone was completely amazed.”
Mark 5:41-42 (New Century Version)
When I read these two verses, I clearly heard the Holy Spirit tell me, “If the 12-year-old would respond to Jesus’ command in this story, your children will respond to the bold command that comes out of your mouth today.” That might be too much for you to grab ahold of. Is your brain going tilt, tilt, tilt?
I don’t know about you, but this has me excited. The same Holy Spirit that enabled Jesus to heal all that were oppressed of the devil (Acts 10:38) is living on the inside of me. There’s not two Holy Spirits, one in the Bible days and a downsized, weaker, less compassionate Holy Spirit for today. No. He hasn’t changed one iota throughout all of eternity. He is still the same another (Greek … allos, another of the same kind) Comforter (Greek … Parakletos, Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) that Jesus promised from the Father. (John 14:16). And He is abiding in me!
Oh, just in case that you didn’t notice this, Jairus’ daughter was just 12-years-old. Can you even begin to imagine how this impacted the remainder of her life? Can you imagine what this did to all of her friends who heard about this miracle? If she had been in your children’s church, your church would have been packed out the next weekend!
So, Sunday school teacher, mid-week Bible club leader, nursery worker, children’s church volunteer, or whatever title that you may be wearing, go where few have gone. Take the child by the hand. “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” (Mark 5:36). Boldly, confidently speak God’s Word. Allow the Holy Spirit to do His job. He’s waiting to respond and cause the needed change in every child’s life. Be prepared to be amazed!
