As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.
Mark 1:29-31 NIV
There is a strategy for the movement of Jesus. He doesn’t just go anywhere at any time because he can. We see how Jesus called the disciples, and then we see him go into the synagogue to teach people about the Kingdom of God. He was always in proximity to reach people.
Next, after Jesus left the synagogue, He went with some of the disciples to another place, but this time it was a personal place. They went to the house of Simon, one of his disciples. There, they found Simon’s mother-in-law, who was sick. Interestingly, although Jesus was in the house, Simon’s mother-in-law did not receive healing until someone informed Jesus about her illness. This illustrates an important lesson: if you don’t invite Jesus into your situation, there is no way you are going to receive help. Don’t assume he knows your problems; you need to call on Jesus and acknowledge your struggles. Don’t leave Jesus at the church – take Him home with you and let Him impact your home life, your daily life, and those who live under your roof.
As soon as Jesus was knew of her illness, he healed her. This demonstrates that proximity does not mean access. Being close to someone does not mean you will automatically receive the benefits that person can offer. Although Simon was close to Jesus, his mother-in-law could not enjoy the grace of healing until Jesus was invited into the situation. Moreover, you must be specific about what you need Jesus to do. Don’t just assume that he knows your needs without you telling him.
That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.
Mark 1:32-34 NIV
Later that evening, the news of Jesus had spread far and wide. Consequently, people started bringing all their sick and demon-possessed to him. The whole town came to where Jesus was, and because they came, Jesus healed all of them. He drove out demons and spoke life into their situations.
So, we can see that it is crucial to bring your situation to Jesus. He needs to know that there’s a problem. Don’t assume he is aware of all your difficulties. When you are facing something that is out of your control, don’t wait to take it to Jesus. Take it to Jesus right away. Don’t hesitate and don’t procrastinate. Jesus wants you to bring your concerns to Him. Don’t ignore the proximity you have. He is accessible.
In order to redeem men and women from the devastating effects of sin, Jesus Himself would have to suffer and die. Sickness, sorrow, and death could not be permanently removed until sin itself was defeated. Through His death, Jesus paid the penalty for sin, and through His resurrection, He conquered death. Thus, by dying and rising again, the Lord Jesus defeated both sin and death for all who would put their faith in Him. Those who would come to him with their trouble and challenges and receive his strength. Believe in the finished work of the cross and be saved.
