Talitha Cum- A Reflection On Mark 5:21-23, 35-43
On my recent retreat, I was led to pray with the story of the raising of the daughter of Jairus. I had an image where I pictured Jesus and Mary placing their hands on my head and saying the words to me, ‘Talitha Cum’, that is, little girl, get up. But before I share my reflections, have a read of the story.
Mark 5:21-23, 35-43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered around him; and he was by the sea. Then one of the leaders of the synagogue named Jairus came and, when he saw him, fell at his feet and begged him repeatedly, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live.”
While he was still speaking, some people came from the leader’s house to say, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the teacher any further?” But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the leader of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” He allowed no one to follow him except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they came to the house of the leader of the synagogue, he saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. When he had entered, he said to them, “Why do you make a commotion and weep? The child is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. Then he put them all outside, and took the child’s father and mother and those who were with him, and went in where the child was. He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha cum,” which means, “Little girl, get up!” And immediately the girl got up and began to walk about (she was twelve years of age). At this they were overcome with amazement. He strictly ordered them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.
Like I said, I imagined Jesus and Mary praying those poignant words over me – Talitha Cum. I sat with them for some time, pondering the depth of their meaning and the invitation they offer to me at this time. Here are a few thoughts that emerged for me – I invite you to take the one that stands out to you to prayer yourself, seeking how Jesus might call you to ‘get up’.
Where in my life am I asleep?
What is ‘dead’ inside of me? Where do I need to be brought back to life?
In the story, some of those gathered did not think it possible that the child could be brought back to life. However, Jesus showed them it was possible. Are there situations in my life that seem impossible? Can I have the courage to trust that what seems impossible to me may in fact be possible for Jesus?
The little girl no doubt experienced intimacy in the healing encounter – how might Jesus want to enter into intimacy with me, bringing healing into my life. The little girl was in part healed through the loving faith of Jairus her father. How might I be called to enter into a deeper relationship with my heavenly Father?
Can I trust, that just as Jesus brought immediate healing and transformation to the little girl, that he may also want to bring it to me?
Scripture offers us such a deep and amazing opportunity to encounter Jesus – may this story bless you today.
Mel Edwards
