Grow in Knowledge of the Lord

eDevotion

Encouragement for your daily walk with God 

First a story, then an application.

The Law distinguished between the clean and the unclean. Those classified unclean were forbidden to join the community in Temple worship. Sometimes the uncleanness was temporary in nature. Childbirth is an example of that. However, after a short time, the woman could become ceremonially clean and join with others in the community [Leviticus 12]. Other forms of uncleanness were permanent. Incurable diseases are an example of that [Leviticus 13].

Mark 5 describes a woman who, for all intents and purposes, was permanently unclean. She had a discharge of blood for twelve years. She was desperate for many reasons, not the least of which was being an “outcast” all that time [Leviticus 15:19-30]. She had spent everything in her attempts to find healing. Now penniless, she heard about Jesus and His miraculous healing power. And He was coming her way.

She sought Him out, and Mark explained that her goal was to touch the Lord’s clothing, believing that contact with it could heal her. In those days, people thought they received benefit by simply touching a person’s garment. It is likely that her pursuit of Jesus was not free of superstition. 

Regardless, Jesus healed her, which was a demonstration of His grace. He accepted imperfect, but true faith. That is good news for us because none of us will have perfect faith this side of heaven. Let me be clear, imperfection is not permission to hold on to superstitions and false belief. God wants you and me to keep growing in our faith and knowledge of Him and His promises.

When we first come to Christ in faith, it is imperfect and may be filled with many errors. Overtime, however, the Holy Spirit helps correct those errors. He helps us grow in what is true and right. 

Like the woman in Mark 5, keep pursuing Christ. Keep reaching out to Him for a greater appreciation of who He is and what He can do.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18