September 13

So Jesus went with him, and a large crowd followed and pressed around Him. — Mark 5:24 BSB

Jesus is always quick to respond to cries for help.

He immediately went with Jairus when he asked for healing for his dying daughter. But Jesus is never in a hurry. Though the child was near death, when a poor woman in the crowd touched the hem of His garment with a heart full of hope, Jesus paused to acknowledge her and give her the blessing she sought. He even took time to speak with her.

By the time He finished, word came that the child had died. It seemed too late. But Jesus is just as able to restore life to the dead as He is to heal the sick.

His delay led to a greater miracle when He raised the dead child, instead of just healing her.

We should never fear Christ’s delays—He is never late. And we can also learn the beauty of “wayside work,” finding opportunities to bless others even as we go about our own tasks.