A Touch of Hope

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I had this print in my house for many years. Every time I looked at this picture, I wondered what propelled her forward.

She had been struggling for a while with a "female issue." You see she bled so much that it caused much pain and embarrassment. She may have been emaciated from the amount of blood she was losing on a regular basis. In those days, she was more than likely ostracized because of her condition. This had been going on for a long time - 12 years. Every month she dealt with the pain, the staining of her garments, the cleaning up that never seemed to end. This lady, some say her name was Veronica, hemorrhaged blood. We don't know if it was intermittent or constant, but it affected her quality of life. She had gone to many doctors, with no success.

12 years, many doctors, constant bleeding - what would you do?

She heard that Jesus was passing by. She knew that he had done miracles of healing. She knew she needed healing and thought it was worth a shot to see Jesus. But the crowds, they were so thick she didn't stand a chance of having an audience with him. Perhaps, she thought, if I just touch Him, it would make a difference. I've tried everything else, I have nothing left to lose.

In the midst of the crowd, with her persistence, she was able to touch the hem of his robe and immediately she felt a difference in her body. But Jesus noticed also. He said, "Who touched me?" His disciples couldn't understand the question as so many were around Him. In a crowd, you will be touched. How do you not get touched in a crowd?

She came forward - embarrassed no more yet a little nervous. "I touched you." Jesus said, "Daughter, go in peace. Your faith has made you whole." In acknowledging her, Jesus recognized who she was; he called her daughter. To be called daughter by the great physician is endearing, it's personal, it recognizes your humanity and your frailty. Just one word from the great physician could elevate her spirit. But he also confirmed that she was healed; that this burden was lifted.

Can you imagine her after that encounter? No more pain, no more shame, and telling everyone she met. 12 years and a simple touch of the Master restored her. This story conveys the epitome of hope - having tried all she could, yet never giving up. Reaching out to Jesus, because his reputation proceeded Him. And then eventually having a personal audience with Him that solidified that hope.

And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately.

And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace. Luke 8:47-48 [KJV]

What have you held onto for 12 years? Don't lose hope; seek out Jesus. Touch Him.