Risk of faith

One day in a crowd of people a lady with a bleeding problem grabbed hold of the fringe on Jesus robe, fully believing his power would meet her need. It was a risky thing to do, because in her condition it was unlawful for her to touch him. She knew if she got caught she would be condemned and ostracised and his ministry would be compromised. (ie. he would become unclean because of her association with him.)

When Jesus forces her to identify herself, I am sure she was afraid of condemnation, maybe even angry rejection and a 'religious lecture' about the law. No wonder she wanted to keep her risky act of faith a secret.

But Jesus responds by commending her and blessing her. [Message - Live well, live blessed!] Amazing!

In the church we must always reward and commend 'risks of faith.' When people come who might tarnish our reputation by their conditions (sins, embarassing behaviours, lack of status, money, education, etc.) we must welcome them like Jesus did, and commend their risky faith (they are desperate for Jesus to do something in their lives.)

Can we do it? Do we dare to take a risk of faith and believe God will be pleased with us when we welcome and bless the 'outcasts' and those with embarassing 'conditions?'