Luke 8:49-50

While he was still speaking, someone came from the leader’s house to say, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the teacher any longer.” When Jesus heard this, he replied, “Do not fear. Only believe, and she will be saved.” It’s hard to imagine the level of heartbreak and...

Hope That Is Beautiful, Dangerous & Good Jun26

Hope That Is Beautiful, Dangerous & Good

Q: What do Jairus, the woman who’s been bleeding for twelve years, Stephen King, and Tim Robbins have to do with each other? A: Just about everything, at least when it comes to hope. Okay, here’s the backstory: After writing on “Hope as the Heart of the Christian Faith” a couple of weeks ago, a number of folks suggested that I watch the clip from The Shawshank Redemption (written by Stephen King and starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman) on hope. I’d seen – and loved – the movie years ago, but had forgotten that scene. I’ve put it below for you to watch: I think that’s right: hope is beautiful like a sonata from...

Mark 5:35-43

While he was still speaking, some people came from the leader’s house to say, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the teacher any further?” But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the leader of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” He allowed no one to follow him except...

Mark 5:21-24

When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered round him; and he was by the lake. Then one of the leaders of the synagogue named Jairus came and, when he saw him, fell at his feet and begged him repeatedly, “My little daughter is at the point of death....