The Robe

Monday 4-27-15 (Gaiman IBP, Argentina)

Scripture reading:  2 Sam 2     1 Chron 11    Ps 142     Matt 14

S.  Matt 14:34-36  After they had crossed the lake, they landed at Gennesaret.  The news of their arrival spread quickly throughout the whole surrounding area, and soon people were bringing all their sick to be healed.  The sick begged him to let them touch even the fringe of his robe, and all who touched it were healed.

Matt 9:19-21  As Jesus and the disciples were going to the official's home, a woman who had had a hemorrhage for twelve years came up behind him. She touched the fringe of his robe, for she thought, "If I can just touch his robe, I will be healed." NLT

O.  A desperate woman, who had reached out in faith and touched the hem of Jesus’ robe had been instantly healed.  Now, 5 chapters later, many sick people were begging Him to let them touch His robe and they were all healed. 

Whatever happened to this miracle robe?  If had been the 21^st century, it would be valued at millions of dollars and kept behind glass.  People would travel around the world to see it… and if it was made available to the sick, people would be fighting over the possibility to touch it and crafty “religious people” would be selling small pieces of cloth, claiming them to be part of the original robe. 

All we know for sure is that some Roman soldiers on duty at the scene of the crucifixion divided up His clothing and cast lots for one of His garments that was seamless. 

A.  Of course the truth is that Jesus’ robe had no power to heal.  It was Jesus, the Son of the living God inside that robe that was the Source of healing power.  And He has not changed.  He is the same yesterday, today and forever!  He often said, “Your faith has made you whole.”  We must not place our faith in “sacred things” for this quickly becomes idolatry.  We must direct our faith at the One Who, inside  that robe, walked among unworthy sinners, healing many people and releasing evil men and women from the chains of their lifestyles.  We must lay aside our habit of seeking icons and look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.

P.  Oh Lord, we all want to touch the hem of Your garment.  We seek an easy fix.  We want a visible god than we can set on a shelf or hang on the wall.  We can kiss our fingers and touch it and walk out into our world and forget our little god.  But You have called us away from worship of “sacred things” to focus on the true and living God Who goes with us into our school or work place.  You are always within reach.  Help me to touch You by faith again today… and once again marvel at Your power to intervene miraculously in my life.   Amen.

Ralph