To Be People of Faith

Mark 9: 26b-27: To Be People of Faith

He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, “He is dead!” But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up.

Because of the disciples’ lack of faith and the naysaying religious leaders’ arguments, the crowd gather around an afflicted boy and most likely shake their heads in doubt, mocking the disciples’ claim to Jesus’ power. The scene looks like a failure, for the disciples are unable to exorcise an unclean spirit. Jesus enters the scene, asks questions, elicits the father’s humility and faith, and frees the child from his spiritual bondage -- all in the presence of a gathering crowd. But when the boy looks dead, people doubt. Jesus, however, takes the child’s hand and raises him up, defying the doubters and restoring life.

It is easy to doubt, argue, and give in to the spirit of negativity that permeates our culture. Quitting comes easy; it is often the path of least resistance. Faith, on the other hand, requires humility and an acknowledgement of hope in a world of despair. So often I find myself giving in, letting go, and wondering why even try? Again, an argumentative, doubtful, mocking attitude is easy. But in Christ, we are called to be people of faith. And faith is a choice. Faith requires cooperation with the Holy Spirit. God’s abundant grace waits for us; Jesus holds out his hand. Are we willing to be raised up, too?

Heavenly Father, we seek to be people of faith, hope, and love. Use us as instruments of your love in this world. In Jesus Christ we pray, amen.

Have a blessed week.

Stan