John 4:43-54

40 Days of John

Day 7- John 4:43-54

A royal official comes from Capernaum, some distance from Jesus, and begs Jesus to come with him to heal his sick son.  It happens to be the same place Jesus has already turned water into wine.  Instead of going with the official, Jesus just heals the boy on the spot (no travel needed).  And because of this, the official and his whole family believe in Jesus.

This story reminds us that Jesus is a transformer of hearts and a miracle worker.  Miracles really happen.  I have witnessed some myself.

And yet, I see this familiar struggle in today's reading to believe in Jesus and His power because we can't always see Him and know His power.

Jesus puts the struggle this way,

“Unless you people see signs and wonders,” Jesus told him, “you will never believe.”

John 4:48

Jesus knows us, just like He knows the royal official in today's story.  Jesus knows when we need Him to show us what He can do beyond a shadow of a doubt.  I think just talking to Jesus about this need and our fears unleashes Jesus' power.    

And did you notice what I noticed?  Two things...

First, Jesus doesn't have to physically go to the official's son to heal him.  Just like the official and his son, Jesus meets us wherever we are, as it relates to our physical location and our own faith.  Second, the royal official's faith has a ripple effect on the faith of those around him, especially his family.

A prayer for today-

Dear God,

Thank You for coming to us in real ways, showing us Your power, freeing us from our sins, and healing our minds, bodies, and hearts. 

Forgive me, Lord, for all the ways I struggle to believe in You.  Help me keep my faith strong.  Help me trust and rely on You.

I especially pray for ____________________ today who longs to hear You and to see You at work in his/her life.  Come to ___________________ today in the ways I know only You can and strengthen his/her faith.  Bless ______________________ with certainty of Your presence today and always.  

I praise You, Lord, and I love You with all of my heart, all of my soul, and all of my strength.  You are my Rock and my Redeemer.

In Jesus' name I pray,

Amen

In Christ's love,

*This post is part of A Mind-Maker-Upper's Everyday Reading Project.  Click here to read more.