In today’s gospel, Mark presents two remarkable faith-healing stories. Jairus, a synagogue ruler, approaches Jesus in the middle of a huge crowd with desperation. His daughter is gravely ill, and he pleads for Jesus to come and heal her. Jesus agrees and begins to follow Jairus.

Along the way, a woman who has suffered from chronic bleeding for twelve years approaches Jesus secretly. She believes that if she touches His garment, she will be healed. When she touches Jesus, her bleeding stops instantly. Jesus acknowledges her faith and tells her to go in peace.

Meanwhile, messengers arrive and inform Jairus that his daughter has died. Jesus encourages Jairus not to fear but to believe. Jesus enters the house, takes the girl’s hand, and says, “Talitha cumi” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, arise”). The girl immediately gets up, astonishing everyone.

Both the woman and Jairus demonstrate faith. The woman’s faith leads to her healing, while Jairus’ faith sustains him even when faced with his daughter’s death.

The woman risked everything to touch Jesus’ garment, believing in His power. Faith involves bold trust in God’s grace, even risking everything.

Jesus responds to both situations with compassion. He heals the woman and comforts Jairus. Jesus conquers death by raising Jairus’ daughter. His power extends beyond physical healing.

The woman was an outcast, while Jairus was a respected leader. Jesus reaches out to both, emphasizing that His healing touch is available to all.

Following in the footsteps of Blessed Francisco Palau, OCD and bringing God’s compassion and healing touch to those who suffer and are aware of being the Body of Christ, we are committed to caring for life and attending to the most vulnerable among us. Whatever you do to my sick members, you do to me, and I am grateful to you for it. (MR9,5)

So, here’s the challenge today. We say, again and again, that we are the Body of Christ. It’s God’s Work, our hands. How Do You Need to Be Touched by God Today? Who Needs Your Touch Today?