February 13, 2026

Today's Reading: John 4:46-54

Daily Lectionary: Job 9:1-35 

“Jesus said to him, ’Go; your son will live.” (John 4:50)

In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.

Isn’t it amazing how Jesus can make the most ridiculously absurd statements and no one from among His followers ever questions Him? Pharisees and Sadducees seemingly get paid by the inquiry, but that’s for another time. But really, if we made some of the claims Jesus did, people would stare at us and no doubt argue.  

Not so, though, with Jesus. Because Jesus does something we cannot do. He backs up every statement He makes with proof, with action. In fact, without fail, everything He says comes to pass!  

What a reading we have before us today. In John 4, Jesus heals the official’s son. The man desperately searches out the One he has heard could do something for his son—heal him before he dies.  

If only we had the faith of this official. While we give lip service to knowing the One who heals the sick, casts out demons, raises the dead, and saves the sinner, all too often our actions don’t support that. Deep down, we cling to bits of doubt. Yes, Jesus has healed, but what if He doesn’t this time? Sure, He has risen from the dead, but what if I am not worthy enough? I know He has forgiven some sins, but what if He doesn’t forgive mine? Surely I have to assist in salvation in some way.  

Such thinking is dangerous and does not seem to enter the mind of the official in our text. “The official said to him, ‘Sir, come down before my child dies.’  Jesus said to him, ’Go; your son will live.’ The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way.  As he was going down, his servants met him and told him that his son was recovering.” (John 4:49-51) 

Now, here is what we need to remember from this account. First, what faith this man has to believe Jesus would do exactly what He says. Second, Jesus NEVER enters the official’s house. He NEVER physically looks upon his dying child. He doesn’t need to. His power does not lie solely in seeing or touching… No! What we sing in the hymn “Thy Strong Word” is absolutely true. What breaks the darkness? What bespeaks us righteous?  

The strong, powerful Word of God! In Baptism, in the Lord’s Supper, Creation, the Word of God holds ALL the power! It does. In His Word, He declares you to be His precious child. In His Word, He declares you forgiven of all your sins! In the Word which became flesh and dwelt among us, who took you who were dead in your trespasses and sins and raised you to new life. Nothing our Lord says is ridiculous, absurd, or untrue. He speaks peace, truth, and life for you. Which is why He urges us to “abide in My word.” (John 8:31) 

Remain in that which holds all the power. That which creates, gives light, and makes us righteous. The Word of God.    

In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.

Thy strong word did cleave the darkness At Thy speaking it was done For created light we thank Thee While Thy ordered seasons run. (LSB 578:1)

Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MN

Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.

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