Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished.

— Mark 5:42

When Jairus’s daughter got up and started walking around, the people there were astonished. We do not need to wonder why. The young girl had died but was alive again! When Jesus had arrived at the house, the community mourners had already begun their customary crying and wailing. The people figured there was no reason to bother Jesus anymore, for the girl had died.

Their behavior contrasted with the calm and persistence of Jesus, however. And when he said, “Don’t be afraid; just believe,” the people laughed at him.

Ordering all those people out of the house, Jesus took the father and mother, along with three of his disciples, to where the child was. And I wonder if Jesus smiled a little himself. He knew Psalm 2:4-6: “The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them . . . saying, ‘I have installed my king. . . .’” The confirmation of Jesus as King meant that weeping would be turned into joy, and Jesus knew that he would turn wailing into amazement.

Jesus calmly and gently ordered the girl to get up. No more death, just life and praise to God as a sign of his kingdom coming to earth.

In your dark times, watch for Jesus; he still comes with ­power, bringing hope.

Risen Lord, forgive us for seeing darkness instead of your light. Walk into our situations with us, reveal yourself, and strengthen our hope in you, Prince of peace. Amen.