By the Hand
Mark 1:29-34

While shaking hands I ask, “How are you doing?”

“Pastor,” the shaker replies, coughing, wheezing, and hacking while wiping the nose with the free hand, “I just can’t seem to get over this crud!”

At that moment, my thoughts are not Pastor-like.

Jesus does not fear her fever. Nor does he fear the appearance – single male teacher taking woman by the hand. With compassion, he simply takes her by the hand, raising her from her sickbed, delivering her from her sickness.

Jesus does not fear your condition. Nor does he fear the appearance of nearness to one like you. He simply wants to take you by the hand, raising you from the sickbed of this world, delivering you from your sin.