‘But taking her by the hand he called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once. And he directed that something should be given her to eat’ (Luke 8:55 ESV).
Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, fell down at the feet of Jesus begging him to come to his house. For his twelve year old daughter, his only child, lay dying. Before Jesus could arrive, someone came from Jairus’ house saying not to trouble the Rabbi, for the girl was already dead. However, Jesus answered, “Do not be afraid; only believe, and she will be made well.”
When Jesus had entered the house, he took her by the hand and called, saying, “Little girl, arise.” Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately.”
In this, we can see Christ’s authority over the seen and the unseen world. By his command the “spirit” of the little girl returned to her body. This clearly points to the reality of the human soul, which departs from the body at the time of physical death. Jesus had authority over the unseen, so that the soul or spirit of the little girl heard his voice and returned. We also see his authority over the seen world, for her body was immediately healed and arose from her bed. Even her appetite returned, so that Jesus ordered her parents to give her something to eat.
Christ’s authority over the seen and the unseen, the material and the immaterial should give us great hope and confidence. For although we shall all die, “in Christ shall all be made alive” (1 Cor. 15:22).
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for Jesus. We put our total trust in Him for this day, knowing that neither death nor life can separate us from Your love that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Strengthen us to live for You today. In Jesus’ name, amen.