The miracles of Jesus - Classical Christian Literature by Athleo.net

CHRIST THE HEALER 155
in the synagogue Jesus was the great teacher, to
those in the house He was the personal friend
and He brought a blessing to the one as to the
other. As distinctly as on some occasions He
declined to make His wonder-working powers the
mere instruments of selfish and worldly gratification
to those who thought relationship or friendship
gave them some claim upon Him, even so
readily did He respond to the claims of friendship
urged in humility and faith. His was not the
pretended impartiality which does injustice to
friendship
lest it should concede overmuch. Christ recognised
the claims even of earthly affection— "Our
friend Lazarus sleepeth ; but I go that I may awake
him out of sleep"—and to Simon's wife's mother,
He extended the healing touch.
It has been justly observed that u the very humbleness
of the occurrence deeply attracts us."
In outward
circumstance, as has been already said, it is not
impressive ;
it does not seem a " mighty work." But
all the more it is seen to be a kindly work ; it takes
away the anxiety of a household, it gives health for
sickness, joy for sorrow, light for darkness. The very
obscurity of it sets in greater emphasis its power
and glory. The mightiest in the universe is condescending
to the lowliest.
Jesus, let us remember, was calling away Simon
Peter to be His follower in His life of hardship and
trial. The future Apostle was to leave all and follow
his Lord and Master. Before doing so, his anxiety
on account of those left behind is to be mercifully
allayed. A day of family rejoicing is to prepare for
the days of family separation and sacrifice.
Will not