Words of Jesus: Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026

Saturday, January 17, 2026  

Luke 8:49-56    “While he was still speaking, a man from the ruler's house came and said, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more.” But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she shall be well.” And when he came to the house, he permitted no one to enter with him, except Peter and John and James, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and bewailing her; but he said, “Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand he called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once; and he directed that something should be given her to eat. And her parents were amazed; but he charged them to tell no one what had happened.”

 RSV

This account does not say what the father of the girl was thinking, nor does it say if  Jesus asked the man if he believed. It only shows that the father followed along with Jesus, who had taken charge of the situation. In spite of others telling him that his daughter was dead he followed.  That sounds like a description of faith, or at the very least hope; a desperate hope that Jesus could save his daughter even though everyone else knew she was dead.  Jesus was his only hope.  Jesus is our only hope.