Jesus and the woman in Nain (Nico Marais)

Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.

Luke 7:14-15

It almost seems that Jesus is drawn to sad, broken and needy people...  That’s why I don’t think it’s a coincidence that Jesus and His disciples arrive at Nain at exactly this time.
Two things stand out about this encounter:  This is the first person Jesus raises from the dead (Jairus’ daughter and Lazarus are raised from the dead later), and the widow didn’t approach Jesus to ask His help.
This is significant and profound, because it holds so much comfort and hope for us today.  Jesus knows what we need and He meets us exactly where we need Him most.  In those days a rabbi would not have touched the coffin for fear of becoming unclean.  Jesus, however, touches it to show us He is personally involved, closely, there where we are.
Word soon spread about this miracle, because the people were amazed at what they saw.  When was the last time you’ve seen God do wonderful things for others or yourself?  Where do you need Jesus to step in most at this moment in time?

A Prayer: Jesus, thank you for being Emmanuel, God with us. Thank you that you come to meet us where we are. Remind us often of all you’ve done and help us live lives of gratitude so that others will notice and be drawn to encounter you, and that word of your loving kindness will spread throughout my whole circle of influence.  Amen.

Nico Marais