Jesus asked the father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. It has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if You are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us.” Jesus said to him, “If You are able!— All things can be done for the one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!” Mark 9:21-24
The father of the child had first brought the child to the disciples for prayer and healing and when the child was not healed by the disciples then an argument started. This boy, whose symptoms may have been epilepsy, is caught in the crossfire of unbelief.
Jesus walks up to the arguing father and disciples and after questioning them says, “You faithless generation .... Bring him to Me.” (Mark 9:19). That child had never received sweeter words! This boy is filled with joy now for he knows the source of Love is Jesus.
Jesus is not filled with pity for the father. Jesus is consumed with compassion for the sick child. Jesus commands the illness out of the boy saying, “You spirit that keeps this boy from speaking and hearing, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again!” (Mark 9:25)
Later the disciples ask Jesus, “Why could we not cast it out?” He said to them, “This kind can come out only through prayer.” (Mark 9:28-29). Jesus is clear, isn’t He? The Holy Spirit’s Power is magnified when we join together in prayer, praying as hard as we can and as constantly as we can, and with the sincere belief that Jesus CAN do all things when we believe. Especially for children.
We do as Jesus does— Love with tremendous compassion.
To God be the Glory!
Rev. Patricia E. Walker,