Daily Devotionals
february 8, 2021
And when Jesus came to the ruler's house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, “Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went through all that district.
Matthew 9:23-26
Oh dear… I do believe the crowd is sicker than the girl! With apologies to honest flute players everywhere, musicians got a bad name in the ancient world as hired mourning equipment. Along with professional weepers and wailers (yes, people got PAID for making loud noises at a death), the lofty standard existed at that time of hiring several flutists to play their saddest songs, thereby announcing to the world a family’s status through an audible demonstration of loss. The more mourners and flutists you had, the higher your economic standing in the community.
When Jesus says, “Go away, she’s not dead,” they laugh at him. Who is He to declare that these professional mourners should be cast out of the house without their expected fees? Who is He to halt the professional song?
Well, He is the One who gave them that song. He is the One who created the heavens and the earth. He is the One whom the angels proclaimed. He is the One who stills the seas, and He is the One who came to defeat death. He takes a girl by the hand, and she rises. No crowds to cheer the moment or make noise about it. A small life is restored. No flutes to announce it, no trumpets—just a touch, and death is gone.
For Reflection
In what simple way have I seen God at work this week?
What “noise” needs to be cleared away so I can hear Jesus better?
Prayer
Jesus, great healing Friend, take my hand and heal me of the cares that plague me today. I am carrying a burden for those I love. The noise of the world creeps in and sometimes I can’t hear Your voice. Clear away the distractions and show me Your tenderness. Help me rise and live for You and show Your quiet love to this noisy world. Amen.
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