Read today’s texts first: Numbers 30,31; Mark 9
Our problem of unbelief must ultimately give way to simple trust in a God who knows far more than we do.
The father of the demon possessed boy probably speaks for all of us. When asked if he believed Jesus could deliver his son, he answers, “I do believe. Help my unbelief!” After walking with Jesus for over half a century, I still need help with my human doubts.
I’ve seen many undeniable miracles over those years, but I must admit to being shaken while watching a great church leader, a father of two young boys, succumb to the ravages of brain cancer. I do believe he is with Jesus right now, completely healthy and happier than we can ever imagine this side of heaven. But I still struggle with questions from my limited perspective, wondering why he had to go now and not mafter his sons had children of their own. I do believe Lord, but help my unbelief!
In both our readings today, questions are unavoidable: why are women’s vows subject to fathers and husbands (ch. 30), why did so many Midianites have to die (ch. 31), how did Moses and Elijah show up very much alive with Jesus (9:2-12), why was Jesus so fixated on His death (9:12,31), and why is there a hell for those who don’t believe (9:43-49)?
Some clues to our struggles with unbelief are found in what Jesus has to say about children (9:36,37,42). They simply believe - trusting those with more life experience to make the right decisions for them. Our adult problem of unbelief must ultimately give way to simple trust in a God who knows far more than we do.
“Lord, I do believe, but when doubts creep into my human thinking, help my unbelief! Like Peter, James, and John, who saw You transfigured before their very eyes, give me a glimpse beyond my limited perspective into eternity.”
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