In Mark 5, two desperate people find themselves at the feet of Jesus—a respected synagogue leader named Jairus whose twelve-year-old daughter is dying, and an unnamed woman who has been bleeding for twelve years. One is a man of status, the other a social outcast. One is surrounded by crowds, the other hidden in shame. Yet both have run out of options, and both come to Jesus because they believe He is their only hope. Mark weaves their stories together in what’s called a “Markan sandwich,” inviting us to see how these two encounters reveal the same truth: Jesus’ authority is comprehensive—over sickness, over shame, and even over death itself.

Jairus comes to Jesus with the raw, urgent plea of a father who knows his daughter’s life is slipping away. He falls at Jesus’ feet—risking his reputation—because he believes Jesus can do what no one else can. And Jesus goes with him. Along the way, another desperate soul reaches out. For twelve years this woman has suffered physically, socially, and spiritually—cut off from worship, touch, and community. She’s tried everything and spent everything, but nothing has helped. In a crowded street, she stretches out her hand to touch the hem of Jesus’ robe, believing even that will be enough. And instantly, she is healed. But Jesus won’t let her slip away unseen. He calls her forward—not to shame her, but to restore her publicly and welcome her as “daughter.”

Before Jesus can reach Jairus’ house, news comes that the little girl has died. But Jesus tells Jairus, “Do not fear, only believe.” He enters the home, takes the girl by the hand—ignoring every ritual concern about touching the dead—and simply says, “Little girl, arise.” In an instant, life returns. Death retreats. What began as two separate crises ends with one stunning truth: nothing is too great for Jesus. The woman’s twelve years of suffering end, and the girl’s twelve years of life continue—all because they encountered the One with power over disease and death.

These miracles point beyond themselves to the cross and resurrection. Jesus heals the sick and raises the dead, but His ultimate mission was to bear our uncleanness, pay our debt, and conquer the grave once and for all. One day He will call every believer to rise, not just for a few more years of life, but for eternity with Him. In your desperation—whether from pain, fear, loss, or hopelessness—run to Jesus. He alone has the power to meet your need and the love to welcome you as His own. As Martin Luther, grieving the loss of his daughter, once cried, “Hammer away! On doomsday she’ll rise again.” Death will not have the last word, because Jesus already has.

Main Point – Desperation should drive us only to the feet of Jesus is bold faith.