Gospel Reflection #101: Jesus touches the dirtiest part of us

Luke 8:54,55 Jesus took the daughter's hand and called out, "Daughter, arise. And her spirit returned and she arose immediately.

In those days there were many rules against touching the sick and the dead. This is so as not to defile oneself. When Jesus arrived at Jairus' house, his daughter was dead. But Jesus took her hand and said, "Arise," and she came back to life.

Jesus touches the dirtiest part of us. It is precisely when we are in despair or even when we feel that life is not worth living that Jesus embraces us. We may look at ourselves and feel as if we are unforgiven to even have hope that we are not worthy to be with Jesus, but Jesus touches us.

He touches us. He gives life. There is nothing Jesus cannot do. Jesus wants to be in relationship with us. He forgives us, heals us, restores us, gives us hope, and pours out his boundless love.

And what Jesus would say to us, "Get up," He does not command us to do, but He enables us to do. This girl was sick and had no good works or accomplishments at all. Jesus does not care about such things at all. All Jesus cares about is having compassion on us, giving us hope, and sharing in our joy.

That is why Jesus seeks us out and touches us. This is the efficacy of Jesus and His love!

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This Gospel Reflections page is written by Masae San, a devoted student of the Bible who passionately embraces the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She shares her daily reflections on the Gospels as a way to reach out to others and spread the message of Jesus. We're sharing her message here so that you too can experience the joy that comes from the Gospel that has filled her heart.