In Mark 5:21-34 we read the Narrative of a woman who had been bleeding for 12 years and despite seeking help from numerous doctors she was unable to find a cure. In fact, her condition had deteriorated. So, when finding out that Jesus was coming to her town she believed that if she was able to touch his cloak she could be cured. My question is what led her to this belief and why she did not just ask Jesus personally for a healing?

Firstly, I am sure that the woman had heard about Jesus’ power to heal people when nobody else could. So, the woman knew it was her last opportunity to be cured and whatever the outcome she had given it her best shot.  Ultimately, upon touching Jesus’ clothes she was immediately healed from her bleeding.

Secondly, Jesus asks “Who touched my clothes?” Mark 5:31 He asks the question not because he is angry that someone had the temerity to touch him but he wants to know who and why they touched him. Immediately, the woman is fearful that Jesus will rebuke her however Jesus says to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” Mark 5:34 Thus, Jesus reassures her she did the right thing by seeking a healing and it was her faith that relieved her suffering.

Finally, it is Jesus’ empathy and understanding that makes the woman’s healing whole. The woman’s courage to grasp the opportunity for a healing changes to one of fear and trembling when Jesus asks who touched my clothes. However, it is Jesus’ empathy and understanding that wins the day. For it was not through touching Jesus’ clothes that healed the woman but her faith. Hence, when  faced with challenging situations  we need the courage to express our faith and it is there we find a empathetic and understanding Jesus.