The Approach

Read:

Hebrews 4:16 “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Mark 5:22-23 “Then one of the synagogue leaders, named Jairus, came, and when he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet. He pleaded earnestly with him, ‘My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.’”

Mark 5:27-28 “When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, ‘If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.’”

Think:

In Mark 5 we discover two very different approaches to Jesus. Jarius tried the direct approach, while the woman with the issue of blood approached Jesus indirectly. Neither manner was right or wrong; each method probably had to do with their station in life. Jarius was a high ranking official in the community, whereas the woman was an outcast, based on Jewish law. She really shouldn't have been on the street in public, let alone touching the tassels of his coat.

We can catch ourselves in these two approaches to Jesus. Sometimes we come to Jesus boldly, knowing he will answer us. Sometimes we come hesitantly, apprehensive that we deserve it or unsure he will reply. It doesn't matter what state we’re in when we come to Jesus – hopeless, questioning, courageous, or hesitant. What matters is that we come.

Apply:

Memorize Hebrews 4:16. Think about “the throne of grace.” What does that mean to you? God is waiting for you to come to him with open arms, bringing your requests and dreams. Jesus wants to hear from his children.

Pray:

God, I come boldly to your throne today. I ask for grace and mercy where I have failed. Give me wisdom and direct my path. In Jesus’ name. Amen.