Immediately after the Transfiguration, where Peter, James and John saw Jesus in his glory, the four returned to join the other disciples who were locked in a hot and heavy argument with some of the scribes. A large crowd was gathered around them and there was lots of shouting and waving of arms. Jesus said to the disciples who had been in the midst of the argument "what's going on here?" Before the disciples had a chance to say a word, a man called out from the crowd, "Master, I have brought my son to you. He has a demon and has terrible seizures. I asked your disciples to cure him and they failed miserably." The disciples were hanging their heads and Jesus said to them, "You faithless bunch! How much longer do I have to put up with you! Bring the child to me." The boy had a seizure even as they brought him to Jesus. The father said, "Master, help us if you can!"
"If I can?" Jesus replied. "Everything is possible if you believe."
The man cried out, "I believe! Help my unbelief!"
So Jesus healed the boy.
Later, the disciples asked Jesus in private, "Why couldn't we cast out the demon?"
Jesus answered, "This kind can only come out through prayer."
I can't help but feel sorry for Jesus' disciples. They are trying so hard. They've been doing well, going about the countryside, preaching, teaching and healing in the name of Jesus. Life has been good and they've been growing spiritually. And then, all of a sudden, out of the blue, comes this man and his kid, and everything falls apart. Not only do they not cure the child, but even Jesus yells at them! Its just not fair. And in Matthew's gospel, Jesus even tells the disciples that if they had faith the size of a mustard seed, they could have thrown out that terrible demon. So a little later, hanging their heads rather sheepishly, they ask Jesus, why they failed. And Jesus' answer is so simple, simple stupid really, that it still causes us to catch our breath.
"Only by prayer." Is it really that easy? Can we really cure all the problems that beset us simply by praying? Can I really find that perfect job, have happy healthy kids, love my wife or husband better just by praying about it? Can St. Mark's grow spiritually simply by praying?
There's a lot I don't know, but this much I do know - all of the romantic dinners, schools and sports, perfect vacations, and financial opportunities won't heal anything without prayer. All of the well planned bible studies, small groups, worship, Deacon's visits and choir rehearsals won't do a thing toward growing St. Mark's if they do not have prayer as a foundation.
I have a request for the faithful remnant at St. Mark's. As part of your stewardship commitment, I'd like to ask each of you to tithe a portion of your prayer time in prayer for St. Mark's church, prayer for its leadership and especially prayer for its spiritual growth. Whether you spend a portion of each daily prayer or tithe one morning or night a week to pray for St. Mark's, covenant with me to do it regularly and faithfully. Your Session, Deacons and Committees can plan and serve till they have nothing left to give - but only your prayerful support will "give the increase." Jesus said only prayer could cure dis-ease.
Jesus also said faith the size of a mustard seed would move mountains. Let's unite in prayer for St. Mark's and watch the Spirit begin to move.
- Pastor Judy
