“Sir, come down before my child dies.” Jesus said to him, “You may go; your son will live.” The man believed what Jesus said to him and left.” John 4:49-50

The heartfelt prayer of a parent. You can almost feel the ache in the words of the royal official to Jesus. There is an urgency and a pleading. We’ve probably all had our moments where our prayer sounded similar to this man. 

The interesting fact here is that the official is asking Jesus to come with him to heal his son, but Jesus just says, “You may go; your son will live.” He doesn’t travel with him back to his home, touch his child, or speak words of healing over him for the entire family and household to see. He just quietly looks at the man and tells him to go with an assurance that all will be okay. What must that gaze have looked like? Can you imagine yourself asking Jesus for your deepest prayer request and having His eyes gaze upon your face and hear His voice telling you it is answered. What joy and peace would flow through your entire being! It must have been like that if this man would believe Jesus and leave without any more begging. 

His faith in the words spoken by Jesus not only healed his son but converted their entire household. There is a lesson in there that we could all learn. And a reason for hope. If you have someone you are praying for who is dead in their faith, remember Jesus’ words. They will live. Keep praying and go on about your day knowing that Jesus has got this covered. 

Reflection Questions: Where do you feel that your faith is lacking, and you want to see the proof before you will believe? How much of that is wanting to be in control? Is there someone in your life that you want to ask Jesus to bring back to life in the faith? Bring them to the Lord right now. 

Prayer: Lord, help me to have the courage to ask and the faith to believe that You will heal my loved ones. I know that You love them even more than I do, so I trust You. Amen.