Mark 6:53-56

“When they got out of the boat, people at once recognized him, and rushed about that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was.” vss. 54-55

Mark reports that wherever Jesus went he was besieged by crowds of people, who were not so much concerned about the kingdom of God, as they were the prospect of healing, either for themselves or for their loved ones. And that’s still the way it is! No matter who we are, we care deeply about sickness and healing. All of us have long prayer lists, and the majority of those who get on the lists are afflicted with some disease, and we pray fervently for their healing and well-being. It’s more important than wealth or riches! Indeed many would gladly sacrifice their wealth if it meant that a loved one could get better. It’s doubtful that all those who were touched by Jesus remained free from their disease. Illness hangs on and is incredibly resilient to even our modern treatments and cures. Sometimes when we think it’s gone, it can suddenly return with a vengeance. But still we keep praying and bringing names to Jesus. We continue laying on our hands and hoping for a miracle–because that’s what we do in the community of faith. We hang together, bringing our deepest hopes and fears to our Lord. We are addicted to life–and believers never give up!

Thought for the Day: Why do I keep praying for the sick?