When the woman touched the hem or “tassels” of Jesus’ clothing, she said to herself “If only, I touch His garment, I will be made well” (Matthew 9:21).
Jesus was Jewish and a teacher of the Law.
He proclaimed the Good News of the Kingdom of God and called the people to repentance.
Encouraging them and us, to turn from sin and back to God, for the Presence of the Lord is near (Mark 1:14-15).
The “Fringes” or “Tassels” that are worn on the edge of Jewish men and boys clothing, is a reminder for both God and Israel.
They remind God to remember Israel and remind Israel of God’s Commandments (and their obligation to keep them).
The woman in the story was physically unwell.
She heard all about the miracles and healings that Jesus had performed.
Cleansing the sick and the calming of the storm.
With many Trusting in the Son of God, she believed in the healing power of God.
The fact that the woman reached out to the tassel of the Messiah, was a statement of faith and an indicator of her spiritual condition.
Perceiving that power had gone from Him, Jesus turned and said, “Daughter, your faith has made you well” and literally means “has saved you” (Matthew 9:22).
Our salvation is wholly of God (by grace) on the basis of the redemption of Jesus Christ, the merit of His shed blood, and not on the basis of human effort, merit or works.
Like the woman, we can experience spiritual restoration ourselves through the Gospel Message, that is available now.
A salvation ready for all who would receive, and for anyone who would believe.
The Cross stands on the Horizon of our Lives and calls us to remember and reach out to Jesus (by faith) who gave His life to save ours.
For Today, is the Day of Salvation.
David Czech
Chaplain, Evangelical Uniting Church, Kyabram
7°C