Touching the Tassels

 

Reaching for the Hem of His Garment

A Sign of Faith in the Law and the Messiah

The woman in Mark 5 had been suffering for twelve years, isolated, unclean, and without hope. No doctor could heal her, and no one could remove her shame. But then, she heard about Jesus.

Pushing through the crowd, she reached out to touch the hem of His garment. This was not a random act; it was deeply symbolic. In Jewish tradition, men were commanded to wear tzitzit—tassels on the corners of their garments—as reminders of God’s covenant (Numbers 15:38-39). Malachi 4:2 prophesied that the Messiah would bring healing in His wings—the Hebrew word kanaph also means the edge of a garment. By touching Jesus’ tassels, she was making a bold declaration: “I believe You are the Messiah.”

Her faith was not passive—it moved her to action. Though many were pressing around Jesus, only she touched Him with faith. Immediately, her bleeding stopped. But Jesus wanted more than just to heal her body—He wanted to restore her identity. When she trembled before Him, He spoke the words she most needed to hear:

“Daughter, your faith has healed you. 

Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” 

(Mark 5:34)

This is the only time in Scripture where Jesus directly calls someone Daughter. She was not just healed—she was seen, known, and loved.

Where is your faith today? Are you pressing through the crowd of doubt, fear, or weariness to reach for Jesus? Like this woman, let us believe that even the smallest touch of faith can change everything.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, give me the faith to reach for You, trusting that You alone can heal and restore. Help me not just seek Your miracles, but to seek You. Thank You for calling me Your own. Amen.

Trusting in God’s Everlasting Word

 

The Eternal Word Amidst Life’s Transience

The grass withers and the flowers fall, 

but the word of our God endures forever. — Isaiah 40:8 

Isaiah 40:8 highlights the contrast between the fleeting nature of life and the enduring permanence of God’s Word. While grass and flowers, though vibrant and beautiful, quickly wither and fade, symbolizing the temporary state of human endeavors and existence, God’s Word remains steadfast and unchanging throughout all generations. 

This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of worldly pursuits. Our achievements, possessions, and even our lives are transient, much like the grass that dries up and the flowers that droop and drop. However, amidst this transience, the Word of God stands as an eternal foundation, offering unwavering truth and guidance. 

Reflecting on this, we are encouraged to prioritize the eternal over the temporary. Consider the following:

• Life’s Transience: Recognize the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits and achievements. While they may bring temporary satisfaction, they do not offer lasting fulfillment.

• Eternal Foundation: Embrace the Bible as an unchanging source of truth and guidance. Its teachings remain relevant across all ages and cultures, providing a solid foundation for life.

• Daily Engagement: Commit to regular reading and meditation on Scripture. Allow its truths to permeate your heart and mind, shaping your thoughts, actions, and decisions.

• Trust in Promises: Hold fast to the promises found in God’s Word. In moments of doubt or difficulty, let them be a source of hope and encouragement, reminding you of God’s unwavering faithfulness.

By grounding ourselves in the eternal Word of God, we navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence, knowing that we are anchored to a truth that transcends time and circumstance. 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, in a world that is constantly changing, we thank You for the unchanging truth of Your Word. Help us to prioritize the eternal over the temporary and to build our lives upon the firm foundation of Scripture. May Your enduring Word guide us, comfort us, and strengthen our faith each day. Amen.