Power of Life

The Gospels are replete with examples of Jesus’ power to heal.  Blindness, leprosy, and paralysis all were within His remit to heal.  The centurion’s  servant was even healed at a distance.  It is his resurrections, however, that show His ultimate power – the power of life.

These resurrection accounts show a chronological development and each shows more power, by the an increasing of the period of death.  In  Luke 7:11-17 Jesus encounters a funeral procession at Nain.  He immediately heals the widow’s only son, causing a great commotion.  “¹⁶ Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen among us!” and “God has looked favorably on his people!” ¹⁷ This word about him spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding country.” 

Later in Luke 8:40-56 (and parallels), Jesus is sought by Jairus, “the ruler of the synagogue.”  His daughter is dying and he beseeches Jesus for help.  As they head to the man’s house, Jesus is interrupted by by an interlude in which a woman touches His garment to receive healing.  This delay is followed by the servants of Jairus arriving with the news that “It is too late.”  Jesus despite this delay, goes and heals the child, rising to life even before the gathered mourners.

The healing of Lazarus in John 11 is even more profound.  Jesus is called to attend to Lazarus who is ill, and delays in His setting off.  Days have elapsed, and Lazarus has not only died, but been in the tomb for four days.  Jesus nonetheless has the tomb opened, and brings back His friend without decay.

Jesus has the power of life.  “I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly (John 10:10).”

Padre